Texas Lawmakers Condemn Governor Abbott’s Proclamation Targeting Muslim Organizations
A group of Democratic members of the Texas House of Representatives, led by State Representative Salman Bhojani, has criticized Governor Greg Abbott over his recent proclamation designating the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist organizations.
The lawmakers described the action as harmful, discriminatory, and contrary to Texas’ long-standing commitment to religious freedom.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the legislators emphasized that Texas has historically welcomed people of all faiths and that the state constitution guarantees every individual the right to worship according to their conscience. They argued that the governor’s proclamation undermines these principles and risks fueling hostility toward Muslim residents, business owners, educators, and community institutions.
“The governor has a responsibility to uphold these rights for all Texans,” the statement read. “However, the governor’s action treats Muslim beliefs and institutions with suspicion rather than fairness, and will only deepen mistrust within communities.”
The lawmakers urged leaders across party lines to reject “fear-driven narratives” and to reaffirm that no Texan should face harassment or discrimination because of their faith. They insisted that unity and mutual respect are essential to protecting civil liberties across the state.
While noting that any organization that genuinely threatens public safety should be prosecuted, the representatives argued that the governor’s proclamation instead promotes “far-fetched conspiracy theories” and unfairly targets Muslim Texans.
“Texas is strongest when we honor our values of tolerance, pluralism, and respect for all people,” they said, calling on Governor Abbott to withdraw the proclamation and recommit to genuine religious freedom.
Rep. Bhojani later reiterated the message, saying Texas’ commitment to pluralism was under attack. “My Texas House colleagues and I are calling on Governor Abbott to reverse this harmful proclamation and recognize that Muslim Texans deserve the same dignity, trust, and freedom as every other faith community,” he said.
The statement was co-signed by Rep. Salman Bhojani (HD 92), Speaker Pro Tempore Joe Moody (HD 78), and Rep. Gene Wu, Chair of the House Democratic Caucus (HD 137).
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