On Wednesday, Oct. 16, the Texas Chapters of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Texas) will hold a press conference to oppose the Texas Senate State Affairs Committee’s hearing focused on the use of face coverings at protests.
The Texas Senate is holding a hearing to explore whether people should be allowed to wear masks or face coverings during protests. This review, prompted by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, is part of a broader effort to target pro-Palestine protests and protesters across the nation. The committee has been directed to examine how masks might be used to hide the identities of those committing crimes during protests and whether laws should be introduced to restrict their use.
CAIR-Texas strongly opposes any potential move to ban masks. Such legislation would discriminate against individuals with disabilities, Muslim women, and others who wear facial coverings for religious or medical reasons. It also represents a broader attempt to suppress political dissent, particularly against pro-Palestinian demonstrators. This would set a dangerous precedent for curbing the rights of protesters and stifling free speech in Texas.
WHAT: Press Conference
WHERE: Outdoor Rotunda, Texas Capitol Extension, E2
WHEN: Wednesday, October 16th, 2024, at 12:00 PM CST
WHO: Clear the Air ATX, Texas Civil Rights Project. Additional participants to be announced
LIVE COVERAGE: https://www.instagram.com/cairatx/
The mission of CAIR-Texas is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
CONTACT:
Shaimaa Zayan, Operations Manager of CAIR-Austin, 512-785-7105, shaimaa.zayan@cairtx.org;
Mustafaa Carroll, Executive Director of CAIR-Dallas/Fort Worth, 469-200-0273, muspeaks@gmail.com