SMF Participates in White House Briefing on National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: December 13, 2024

Washington, D.C. — The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) participated in a White House briefing today on the newly released U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate. The briefing was led by Domestic Policy Advisor Neera Tanden and Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Rashad Hussain.

This landmark strategy outlines comprehensive measures to combat Islamophobia, hate crimes, and discrimination, marking a significant step toward protecting the rights and safety of Muslim and Arab American communities. SMF’s involvement in this initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to advocating for Shia Muslims and other marginalized groups facing systemic prejudice.

During the briefing, Neera Tanden underscored the Administration's dedication to addressing hate-motivated violence and enhancing safety for affected communities, while Ambassador Hussain highlighted the importance of international religious freedom and the need for solidarity across faiths.

“SMF is proud to contribute to this essential strategy,” said Rahat Husain, Executive Director of SMF. “Islamophobia and anti-Arab hate are not abstract problems — they are lived realities for many in our community. This strategy is a necessary step toward ensuring that every American, regardless of faith or heritage, can live without fear. We will continue our work to support policies that promote justice, safety, and dignity.”

SMF’s participation in this discussion builds on its extensive U.S.-based advocacy efforts. These include collaborative meetings with the Department of Justice on combating hate crimes and voter intimidation, supporting interfaith initiatives to promote civic unity, and contributing to the development of policies that protect the civil rights of Muslim Americans. SMF has also engaged in public awareness campaigns to address the rise of anti-Muslim and anti-Arab discrimination.

The National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate focuses on key priorities, including:

• Increasing Awareness: Promoting education about the heritage and contributions of Muslim and Arab Americans.

• Enhancing Safety: Strengthening security measures and responses to hate crimes.

• Combating Discrimination: Ensuring equal access to opportunities in education, employment, and public services.

• Fostering Solidarity: Encouraging cross-community collaboration to tackle hate and bias.

This initiative comes at a critical time, as incidents of Islamophobia and anti-Arab hate have risen sharply. SMF remains dedicated to supporting efforts that foster justice, inclusion, and protection for all vulnerable communities.

For more information or media inquiries, contact:

Farhana Kassamali

Press Contact, Shia Muslim Foundation

Email: farhana@shiamuslimfoundation.com

White House Releases First-Ever National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: June 13, 2024

The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) is honored to have directly contributed to the development of the U.S. National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate, released today by the White House. This historic initiative addresses long-standing biases and threats faced by Muslim and Arab Americans and marks a pivotal moment for civil rights in the United States.

Developed through collaboration with civil society organizations, including SMF, the Strategy outlines over 100 Executive Actions and Calls to Action to combat discrimination, enhance safety, and promote inclusion for Muslim and Arab communities.

Rahat Husain, Executive Director of SMF, said:

"This Strategy is a crucial acknowledgment of the discrimination and violence our communities endure. SMF’s participation in shaping these policies reflects our unwavering commitment to justice, security, and equality for all. We believe this is a milestone towards a more inclusive America."

The Strategy prioritizes:

• Increasing Awareness: Educating society about the heritage and contributions of Muslim and Arab Americans.

• Enhancing Safety: Investing in community security and addressing hate crimes.

• Combating Discrimination: Ensuring equal access to education, employment, and public services.

• Fostering Solidarity: Promoting cross-community collaboration to counter hate.

This initiative comes at a critical time, as incidents of violence and discrimination have sharply risen. SMF remains dedicated to advancing the civic rights of Shia Muslims and encourages all sectors to support this groundbreaking effort.

For more information or media inquiries, contact:

Farhana Kassamali

Press Contact, Shia Muslim Foundation

Email: farhana@shiamuslimfoundation.com

Shia Public Servant Honored with Commander of the British Empire Award for Public Service

The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) proudly congratulates Shabbir Merali, a distinguished UK-based professional, on receiving the prestigious Commander of the British Empire (CBE) for his outstanding contributions to public service.

The CBE is one of the highest honors awarded in the British honours system, recognizing significant achievements and contributions in public service, charitable work, and national development. Shabbir Merali’s work in economic policy and government advisory roles, including his service to senior Cabinet Ministers and the Prime Minister, has had a meaningful impact on key national policies. His efforts have supported initiatives such as international trade agreements, responses to the Covid-19 pandemic, and the development of AI regulations.

This recognition underscores Shabbir’s dedication to advancing public policy and his commitment to improving society. The award ceremony is expected to take place at Buckingham Palace, where he will be formally presented with this distinguished honor.

In response to receiving the CBE, Shabbir expressed gratitude, stating:

"I am deeply honored to receive this recognition. I could not have achieved this without the support of my family, colleagues, and mentors."

The Shia Muslim Foundation commends Shabbir Merali’s contributions and celebrates his achievement, which reflects the value of dedicated public service and civic engagement.