The Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Texas), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today applauded the Harris County Commissioners Court for passing a resolution on January 8th recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month. 

CAIR-Texas thanks County Commissioner Leslie Briones and her staff for introducing this timely resolution. The resolution formally recognizes the longstanding presence, civic engagement, and cultural impact of Muslim Americans in the region, home to one of the largest Muslim communities in the nation, and across the country. 

SEE: Harris County Muslim American Heritage Month Resolution

Sameeha Rizvi, Civic Engagement Organizer for CAIR-Texas, Austin Chapter, testified during public comment in support of the resolution, stating: 

“This resolution is meaningful not only because it honors our history and contributions, but because it comes at a time when Muslim communities are facing profound harm. Over the past year, we have witnessed the ongoing genocide of Palestinians, alongside rising dehumanization and violence targeting Palestinians, Arabs, and Muslims here at home. In this climate, recognition matters. This resolution speaks the truth, countering the disturbing lies being spread about our communities, that we are part of this county, that we share far more in common than what divides us, and that our stories and contributions are woven into the fabric of Harris County.” 

Imran Ghani, Director of Operations for CAIR-Texas, Houston Chapter, said:

“Houston is one of America’s true global cities, and Muslims are a part of this diversity as business owners, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and more. In a time when politicians at all levels of government are antagonizing the Muslim community, we applaud Harris County for bravely recognizing January as Muslim American Heritage Month. We will continue our advocacy until such resolutions reach the federal level, God willing.”

CAIR-Texas encourages county commissioners courts and city councils across Texas to adopt similar resolutions recognizing Muslim American Heritage Month and affirming the dignity, belonging, and contributions of Muslim communities statewide.  Elected officials interested in pursuing such resolutions are encouraged to contact CAIR-Texas for recommended language and support. 

SEE: CAIR-Austin Welcomes City Recognition of January as Muslim Heritage Month, Urges Other Cities in Texas to Follow Suit 

Community members interested in advocating for Muslim American Heritage Month resolutions are encouraged to review CAIR and CAIR Action’s civic engagement toolkit.  

SEE: Community Advisory: CAIR, CAIR Action Release 2026 Toolkit to Empower Muslim Civic Engagement in Local and State Governments  

 CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.  

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.  

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CONTACT: CAIR-Houston Director of Operations Imran Ghani, ighani@cair.com, 713.922.5270; CAIR-Austin Civic Engagement Organizer Sameeha Rizvi, srizvi@cair.com, 512-893-1371