March 8, 2019

The House resolution against anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim discrimination signifies an important development in the discourse on the Middle East for the United States government. It is a small step toward gaining balance on an issue that has been one-sided for too long. It does bring about difficult conversations that communities need to have about free political speech while being sensitive to the legitimate fears of others.

For too long, anti-Muslim tropes have excluded us from our right to self-representation and self-narrative. Such Islamophobic tropes also deny America the critical input from Muslims in guiding our nation toward the values of freedom, justice and human rights for all.

We are proud to stand with Congresswoman Ilhan Omar. Unfortunately, this resolution was originally introduced to smear Rep. Omar and to silence legitimate criticism of domestic support for the discriminatory and segregationist policies of a foreign government that receives billions of American taxpayer dollars. We welcome changes to the resolution made in response to criticism by grassroots coalitions and voices of conscience within the House.

We as a Muslim community stand with our young leaders as they see what it means to be that voice of courage for our country. We stand together with like-minded Americans who see the importance of this moment in American history -- advancing justice, freedom, and dignity for all people here and abroad.

Signed:

Ahmed Soboh, Islamic Shura Council of Southern California
Hussam Ayloush, Council on American Islamic Relations
Salam Al-Marayati, Muslim Public Affairs Council