The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today released a video featuring caucus leaders of the state Assembly wishing the Muslim community “Ramadan Mubarak” and acknowledging their contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The compilation video was produced by CAIR-CA amid the cancellation of both the annual presentation of the Assembly Ramadan Resolution and the annual Capitol Iftar dinner, where local politicians meet and connect with the Muslim community.
Featured in the video are:
• Assembly member Dr. Shirley Weber (D-79) – chair, California Black Legislative Caucus
• Assembly member Eloise Reyes (D-47) – member, California Latino Legislative Caucus
• Assembly member David Chiu (D-17) – chair, California Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus
In a statement, CAIR-CA CEO Hussam Ayloush said:
“During this unprecedented time, we all have faced many challenges and we wanted the community to know it is not alone. Elected leaders, members of marginalized minority caucuses, stand with the California Muslim community. And CAIR California is proud to share the work Muslims are doing throughout the state to help us emerge from this pandemic stronger in our pursuit of social justice and human rights.”
In his statement, Asm. David Chiu spoke of the lessons Ramadan taught about unity:
“Ramadan reminds us to support each other across our faiths. During these very challenging times, Ramadan also reminds us to express our gratitude and to show compassion to those in need.”
In her comments, Asm. Shirley Weber recognized the civil rights and justice work being done by CAIR-CA:
“We have many neighbors and friends who are Muslim. We learned very quickly in the Black Caucus and in California that (Muslims) are people of tremendous faith and honor. Thank you to CAIR, who has always been there for us on these critical issues about human rights, injustice and dignity.”
In her comments, Asm. Eloise Reyes recognized first responders:
“I want to say a special thank you to those in the Muslim community that are on the frontlines of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, while fasting without water, even. Doctors, nurses and other first responders of the Islamic faith are working double and triple shifts to protect the people of California.”