Texas Gov. Greg Abbott sent a letter to Attorney General Ken Paxton urging him to remove the non-profit status and block the Council on American-Islamic Relations from operating in the state of Texas. CAIR is a civil rights group that aims to “enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.”Abbott recently declared CAIR as a terrorist organization, during November last year, claiming that they were “attempting to undermine Texas law” through intimidation, harassment and other violent means.
This abhorrent behavior from Abbott is the direct result of Islamophobia in the U.S. It stems from racial stereotyping and bigotry, and it is entirely inappropriate.
Islamophobia has its roots in the late 70s, as Ruhollah Khomeini rose to power during the Muslim revolution in Iran. When he became the supreme leader, his Anti-American sentiments became associated with Islam, compounding the Middle East into the monolith seen in U.S. propaganda.
Hate and fear were bolstered again during the “War on Terror” and the 9/11 attacks carried out by Al-Qaeda. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, hate crimes among Muslims and Islamic communities rose 1617% from 2000 to 2001 and are still the target of scrutiny today.
Texas is home to 313,200 Muslims. It is the fifth most Muslim-populated state in the country, with a growing Islamic community. These individuals are constituents of Abbott, the same as any Texan. His disregard for the Islamic community and participation in Islamic hate are disheartening and disturbing. CAIR has been continuously attacked by the governor despite its righteous fight for civil rights and opposition to violence.
Abbott, in a comment with CBS, claimed that Paxton is ready and willing to do what they must “to safeguard Texas and Texans from organizations that have historical connections to terrorism,” but CAIR has never had associations with terrorism or terrorist groups. According to their website, CAIR is entirely funded by Americans and “less than one percent of donations to CAIR come from individuals based abroad, mostly Canada.” Additionally, they “unequivocally condemn all acts of terrorism, whether carried out by al-Qa’ida, the Real IRA, FARC, Hamas, ETA, or any other group.”
CAIR is a civil rights group like any other, intended to make people feel safe in their homes and to end bigotry in the U.S.
Abbott’s behavior could have dangerous outcomes for Muslims in America. The Muslim community should not have to fight this alone. Stand against Abbott’s hateful remarks toward the Islamic community; stand with CAIR in their fight for civil rights for Americans.
