SILVER SPRING, MD – June 12, 2024 – The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) recently met with Reverend Lawrence E. Walker, Sr., Executive Director of Maryland’s Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives (GOCI), to discuss the development of a state-level strategy to counter Islamophobia. This discussion follows the recent release of the White House's National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Anti-Arab Hate.
During the meeting, SMF’s Executive Director, Rahat Husain, underscored the need for Maryland to adopt measures that promote inclusion, equity, and safety for all Muslim communities. Particular attention was given to the inclusion of Shia Muslims in state initiatives. Husain highlighted the challenges faced by the Shia community, noting that while Shia Muslims represent a smaller population with fewer resources, their inclusion would mark a meaningful step forward for the state of Maryland.
“Creating a truly inclusive strategy to counter Islamophobia means ensuring that smaller, historically underserved communities, such as Shia Muslims, are given due consideration,” said Husain. “Maryland has an opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that inclusivity is not just a policy ideal, but a practiced reality.”
The conversation focused on ways the state could incorporate recommendations from the federal strategy, including raising awareness of diverse Muslim communities, improving safety measures, and tackling discrimination in public services. SMF encouraged Maryland’s GOCI to collaborate closely with local Shia organizations to ensure effective representation and to bolster community resilience.
Reverend Walker expressed his commitment to supporting these efforts, recognizing the importance of collaboration with minority communities to promote understanding and counter hate.
The SMF remains committed to advocating for the civic rights of Shia Muslims and supporting initiatives that foster unity and counter discrimination. This engagement is part of a broader effort to ensure that federal, state, and local strategies address the needs of all Muslim communities.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact:
Farhana Kassamali
Press Contact, Shia Muslim Foundation
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