Washington, D.C. – September 10, 2024 – The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) participated in a meeting today with Attorney General Merrick Garland and representatives from the Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division to address the growing concerns of voter intimidation and hate crimes targeting minority communities. The meeting, held in Washington, D.C., brought together civil rights organizations, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC), Muslim Advocates, and the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU).
Attorney General Garland emphasized his commitment to fighting hate crimes and protecting vulnerable communities. The Department of Justice is resolute in its efforts to disrupt, deter, and punish the perpetrators of hate crimes, Garland reported.
The conversation focused on the DOJ’s year-round efforts to combat voter suppression, especially among minority populations. DOJ officials highlighted the coordination with an FBI Command Center to ensure rapid response to voter intimidation on Election Day, while also emphasizing that these protective measures are part of a continuous effort to safeguard democratic processes.
In addition to voting rights, the meeting covered strategies to address hate crimes, underscoring the need to disrupt, deter, and hold accountable those who commit such acts. The DOJ reaffirmed its commitment to working with communities and law enforcement to ensure that minority groups are protected from acts of hate and intimidation.
As part of the discussion, participants, including the Shia Muslim Foundation, were invited to join a broader voting rights task force aimed at fostering collaboration between advocacy groups, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to develop strategies that ensure the protection of voting rights across the country.
"The work of this task force is essential to upholding the integrity of our democracy and ensuring that all voices can be heard, especially those of vulnerable communities," said Rahat Husain, Executive Director of the Shia Muslim Foundation. "We look forward to contributing to these efforts alongside our civil rights partners and the Department of Justice."
For more information on SMF’s advocacy work and efforts to protect voter rights, please visit www.shiamuslimfoundation.com.
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