On Monday, April 24, the California Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) hosted the 6th Annual Muslim Day at the Capitol (MDAC) in Sacramento. Almost 800 participants, of which more than 700 were Muslims from across the state of California, held over 100 advocacy meetings with state officials at the State Capitol.

The participants advocated on four issues in an effort to promote just, equitable and progressive policies within the State. These included protecting immigrants and religious freedoms, setting hate crime standards, and developing measures to prevent school bullying.

1) CALIFORNIA RELIGIOUS FREEDOM ACT (SB 31) – CAIR-CA Co-Sponsoring

2) THE CALIFORNIA VALUES ACT (SB 54)

3) HATE CRIME REPORTING STANDARDS (AB 158)

4) SAFE PLACE TO LEARN ACT (AB 1318) – CAIR-CA Co-Sponsoring

CAIR-CA hosted a press conference featuring Secretary of State Alex Padilla, Assemblyman and author of AB 1318 David Chiu and CAIR-SFBA Executive Director Zahra Billoo. MDAC attendees heard from various CA state officials, including Senator Ricardo Lara, author of SB 31 and Deputy Controller of Legislative Affairs Evan Goldberg.

“Muslim Day at the Capitol aims to provide our community with a platform to build relationships with their legislators and advocate for issues that positively shape our local communities.” said CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush. The growing success of MDAC each year illustrates that CA Muslims are strengthening their political muscle and helping influence CA politics for a more inclusive, tolerant and just state.”

CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

Source: www.cair.com