CAIR Press Releases

Historic Legislative Muslim Caucus to Officially Launch at 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day

Today, the Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), in partnership with State Delegate Sean Stinnett, announced that the Legislative Muslim Caucus will officially launch on February 16 during the 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day, and will be formally presented at the State House in Annapolis, marking a historic first within the Maryland General Assembly.

Event Details:

What: 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day & Official Launch of the Maryland Muslim Caucus

When: Monday, February 16, 2026

Where: Maryland State House, Annapolis

Registration: bit.ly/feb16-lobbyday

[Note: Space is limited and this event is almost at capacity. Book your ticket today to reserve your spot.] 

“I’m excited and very thankful to Speaker Pena-Melnyk for giving me the approval and the much-needed support in establishing the first ever MD Muslim Caucus,” said State Delegate Sean A. Stinnett. “This is the time when we need to have those critical conversations within our community and beyond about what’s needed to break down the barriers and come together as one community.  The primary mission of the Caucus will focus on peace & unity amongst us all.” 

The establishment of the Maryland Muslim Caucus represents a major milestone for civic inclusion, democratic participation, and faith-based representation in state government. It will serve as a collaborative legislative forum dedicated to addressing issues impacting Maryland’s diverse Muslim communities while advancing policies grounded in equity, civil rights, and the public good.

“The launch of the Maryland Muslim Caucus is a historic and affirming moment for Muslim Marylanders,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “It reflects the growing civic engagement of our communities and reinforces the principle that people of all faiths belong fully in the democratic process.”

The Maryland Muslim Lobby Day is a statewide advocacy event that brings together community members, faith leaders, advocates, and elected officials from across Maryland to engage directly with lawmakers on shared policy priorities.

The caucus will work in partnership with fellow legislators, community organizations, and constituents to promote inclusive policymaking on issues such as civil rights protections, public safety, social justice, education, economic opportunity, and religious freedom. It also aims to foster dialogue, understanding, and cooperation across faith and cultural lines within the General Assembly.

Maryland Muslim Lobby Day 2026 will feature constituent meetings with lawmakers and a public program recognizing the launch of the caucus as a landmark achievement in Maryland’s legislative history.

About Maryland Muslim Lobby Day

Maryland Muslim Lobby Day is an annual civic engagement initiative that empowers Muslim communities across the state to participate in the legislative process, engage with elected officials, and advocate for policies rooted in justice, dignity, and equal protection under the law.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.       

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.  

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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com