SMF Condemns Vandalism and Anti-Muslim Graffiti at NYU Prayer Space

Washington, D.C. – April 4, 2025 — The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) strongly condemns the recent act of hate at New York University’s Bobst Library, where a student discovered targeted vandalism and anti-Muslim graffiti in a designated Muslim prayer space.

This incident is not an isolated expression of bigotry—it is part of a growing wave of anti-Muslim sentiment that threatens the safety and dignity of Muslim communities across the country. Acts like this are not just offensive; they are deliberate efforts to intimidate, marginalize, and silence Muslim students and their right to exist and worship freely.

The desecration of a prayer space is an attack on religious freedom and an assault on the values this nation claims to uphold. This act must be treated with the seriousness it warrants. We urge local, state, and federal authorities to immediately open a hate crimes investigation and hold the perpetrator(s) accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

The Shia Muslim Foundation stands in full solidarity with the Islamic Center at NYU and the Muslim student community. No student should be made to feel unsafe for practicing their faith. We support all efforts by NYU and the broader academic community to create an environment where bigotry is not tolerated, and those responsible for hate are met with justice, not silence.

We call on university administrations, elected officials, and civil society to speak out unequivocally against this act and take concrete steps to combat anti-Muslim hate.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore Hosts State's First-Ever Official Eid ul-Fitr Celebration

Annapolis, MD – April 4, 2025 – In a historic first for the state, Governor Wes Moore welcomed Maryland’s Muslim community to the Governor’s Mansion for an official Eid ul-Fitr celebration. The event marked the first time a sitting Maryland governor has formally recognized the holiday in this manner, signaling a new era of civic inclusion for the state’s Muslim residents.

The gathering brought together Muslim leaders, community members, and civic advocates from across Maryland and the broader region. Rahat Husain, Executive Director of the Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF), attended the event alongside other prominent community figures.

Governor Moore reflected on the broader meaning of the event in his remarks. He acknowledged that Muslims in Maryland continue to shape the state’s identity, character, and future, and described their presence at the Governor’s Mansion as long overdue. He emphasized that the Mansion is meant to be a home for all the people of Maryland, and that it felt incomplete until this gathering.

“This event was more than symbolic,” said Rahat Husain. “It was a recognition that Muslims belong fully in the civic and political spaces of this state. We often talk about representation and visibility—this was both, and it came with sincerity and openness from the state’s highest office.”

Husain added that for many Muslims in Maryland, particularly those from immigrant and minority backgrounds, such recognition carries weight. “When state leadership makes the effort to engage our communities during our sacred celebrations, it shows respect. It tells younger generations that they are not outsiders.”

The Shia Muslim Foundation, based in Washington, D.C., advocates for the civil rights of American Shia Muslims and works to address pressing social and political challenges affecting Muslim communities domestically and internationally. The Foundation has long called for deeper civic engagement with underrepresented Muslim communities, including Shia Muslims, who often face distinct challenges within the broader American Muslim experience.

SMF views Governor Moore’s leadership as a promising sign of progress. “We hope this is the beginning of an ongoing dialogue between Maryland’s government and its Muslim residents,” Husain said. “The state’s diversity is one of its strengths—and last night, that was made visible.”

For media inquiries, contact:

Farhana Kassamali

Press Contact, Shia Muslim Foundation

farhana@shiamuslimfoundation.com

Congressman Andre Carson announces Eid Days Act at Congressional Iftar

Washington, D.C. – The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) joined members of Congress, faith leaders, and Muslim organizations at the annual Congressional Iftar, where Representative André Carson (D-IN) highlighted his introduction of the Eid Days Act, a bill that would designate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as federal holidays in the United States.

The event, held at the U.S. Capitol and sponsored by Islamic Relief USA, brought together a diverse group of policymakers, faith leaders, and community advocates to recognize the significance of Ramadan and discuss key issues facing Muslim Americans. It provided a platform to reflect on the growing political and social engagement of Muslims in the U.S. and the work still needed to address systemic inequities.

Rep. Carson, one of the three Muslim members of Congress, spoke about the necessity of federal recognition for Eid, emphasizing that Muslim Americans should not have to choose between their faith and their professional or academic responsibilities. He noted that the Eid Days Act would grant Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha the same recognition as other federally observed religious holidays, allowing Muslim families to celebrate without penalty.

Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (D-IL) also addressed the audience, reinforcing the importance of faith representation and celebrating the contributions of Muslim Americans across the country. She emphasized the need for legislative action that acknowledges the diversity of religious observances in the U.S. and ensures that all communities are treated with equal respect.

Mr. Shiraz Baig, a prominent Shia Muslim, speaking on behalf of the Congressional Muslim Staffers Association, discussed the increasing engagement of Muslim professionals in government and the importance of representation at every level of decision-making. He highlighted the challenges that Muslim staffers and professionals still face in navigating federal workplaces while maintaining their religious identity.

The Shia Muslim Foundation strongly supports the introduction of the Eid Days Act, recognizing it as a milestone in the fight for religious equality.

“Recognizing Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as federal holidays is not just about time off—it’s about respect, inclusion, and ensuring that Muslim Americans are seen as full participants in this nation’s cultural fabric,” said Rahat Husain, Executive Director of SMF. “Muslims have been part of this country’s history for centuries, and it’s time our traditions are formally acknowledged. We commend Representative Carson for taking this initiative and urge Congress to support this long-overdue legislation.”

The event underscored the broader need for policies that promote religious inclusivity in the United States. With an increasing number of American Muslims serving in government, leading businesses, and contributing to every sector of society, the push for equal recognition of Islamic holidays reflects a growing demand for fair representation.

SMF remains committed to working with policymakers, advocacy groups, and interfaith partners to advance the rights and visibility of American Muslims.