Senator Eldridge’s Bill to Establish an American Muslim Commission Advances Out of Committee

This bill would create first statewide body dedicated to studying and addressing issues impacting American Muslim communities

Boston, MA – State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough) is proud to announce that S.2134, An Act promoting the civil rights and inclusion of American Muslims in the Commonwealth, has received a favorable report from the Senate Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight. The bill would create the first permanent state commission dedicated to researching the needs of American Muslim communities, promoting inclusion, and strengthening civic engagement across Massachusetts.

The commission would serve as a resource to state government, examining cultural, social, economic, and educational issues affecting American Muslims and recommending actionable steps to address disparities. Members will serve three-year terms and act as liaisons between government and community partners, helping to build solutions in representation, and unity.

“Massachusetts has always prided itself on being a leader in equality and civil rights, a legacy this bill builds upon,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge. “American Muslims in my district and across the Commonwealth enrich our communities as students, healthcare workers, educators, small business owners, and civic leaders. This commission will help the state better understand and address the challenges they face, while strengthening inclusion and civic participation. I am grateful to Senate Chair Nick Collins and the committee members for their support. As Senate Vice-Chair of the Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Affairs, I was proud to vote to advance this bill.”

“No person should face persecution for their beliefs, but for the over 131,000 members of our Commonwealth's Muslim community, that isn't the case right now," said Rep. Vanna Howard (D-Lowell). "I was proud to co-file this legislation with Senator Eldridge so that we can elevate and address the issues of this community, and in doing so, we can promote a culture of respect and acceptance for all."

“This commission is a way to ensure that American Muslims are represented in state decision-making,” said Tahirah Amatul-Wadud, executive director of the Council on American Islamic Relations Massachusetts (CAIR-MA). “It will serve as a dedicated space for our community’s needs, concerns, and contributions to be recognized. We are grateful to Senator Eldridge, Senator Collins, and Representative Howard for advancing this critical bill.” 

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