Florida Legislature Recognizes Muslim-American Heritage Month
Lawmakers, Community Leaders, and Advocates Mark First-Ever Statewide Recognition with Miami Ceremony
South Florida Muslims celebrate a historic milestone as the Florida Legislature officially recognizes May 2025 as Muslim-American Heritage Month. The commemoration, marked by a special religious service and community outreach in Miami on Friday, May 16, 2025, underscores the growing acknowledgment of Muslim Americans’ contributions to the state and the nation.
Legislative Action: How Florida Made History
In April 2025, the Florida House of Representatives adopted HR 8069, a resolution introduced by Representative Anna Eskamani and co-sponsored by Representatives Rita Harris and Angie Nixon. The Florida Senate soon followed, passing SR 1384, sponsored by Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith. Both resolutions formally designate May as Muslim-American Heritage Month, celebrating Muslim Americans' culture, heritage, and achievements in Florida.
“For the first time, a Muslim-American Heritage Month resolution has been adopted by both chambers of the Florida Legislature. We are deeply grateful to Representatives Anna Eskamani, Rita Harris, Angie Nixon, and Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith for championing this historic recognition,” said Mari Marks, Policy Director at CAIR-Florida, in a press statement released by the Council on American-Islamic Relations–Florida (CAIR-Florida).
Miami’s Masjid Al-Ansar Hosts Commemorative Service
The statewide recognition is being celebrated with a congregational religious service at Masjid Al-Ansar, Miami’s first Islamic center, located in the city’s inner core. The Friday service, known as Jumu‘ah Khutbah, features a sermon by Imam Abdullah Jaber of CAIR-Florida, followed by remarks from Masjid Al-Ansar’s resident imam and founder, Imam Nasir Ahmad, a respected leader in the community.
“Recognizing May as Muslim-American Heritage Month in Florida is not only a celebration but also a strategic step in amplifying the influence and contributions of Florida Muslims - both past and present,” Marks added.
Alongside the religious observance, several Muslim organizations provide community services, including the Islamic Circle of North America Relief (ICNA Relief) and the South Florida Muslim Federation. ICNA Relief is leading a food and grocery distribution initiative, while the Federation assists attendees in accessing services from more than 30 Muslim organizations across the state.
“A Celebration and a Strategic Step”: Community Voices and Reactions
Muslim leaders, civil rights advocates, and community organizations have widely welcomed the recognition of Muslim-American Heritage Month. CAIR-Florida, the state’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy group, played a pivotal role in advocating for the resolutions and organizing the commemorative events.
“This recognition is a testament to the tireless advocacy of Florida’s Muslim community and our allies in the legislature,” said Wilfredo A. Ruiz, Communications Director at CAIR-Florida, in a media briefing.
Imam Nasir Ahmad, who has served Miami’s Muslim community for decades, emphasized the importance of the occasion:
“This is a moment of pride and reflection for all of us. It honors the sacrifices and achievements of Muslim Americans who have contributed to Florida’s growth and diversity,” Ahmad told reporters at the event.
Context: Muslim Americans in Florida and the United States
Florida is home to one of the largest and most diverse Muslim populations in the United States. According to Pew Research Center estimates, more than 200,000 Muslims live in Florida, representing a wide range of ethnicities, professions, and backgrounds. Nationally, the Muslim American population is estimated at over 3.45 million, accounting for about 1.1% of the U.S. population (Pew Research Center, 2018).
Muslim Americans have made significant contributions to Florida’s economy, culture, and civic life. They are represented in fields ranging from medicine and education to business and public service. The recognition of Muslim-American Heritage Month is seen as a step toward greater inclusion and understanding, particularly at a time when hate crimes and anti-Muslim sentiment remain concerns nationwide.
The Role of CAIR-Florida and Partner Organizations
Established in 2001, CAIR-Florida has been at the forefront of civil rights advocacy, legal support, and community engagement for Florida’s Muslims. The organization’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. CAIR-Florida works closely with a network of more than 30 Muslim organizations through the South Florida Muslim Federation, offering services such as legal aid, youth programs, and interfaith outreach.
ICNA Relief, known for its humanitarian work, is actively participating in the Miami event by distributing food and groceries to families in need. The South Florida Muslim Federation provides information about available resources, reflecting a broader commitment to community service and social responsibility.
“We Are Here, and We Belong”: Broader Significance and National Trends
The adoption of Muslim-American Heritage Month in Florida aligns with a growing national movement to recognize the contributions of Muslim Americans. Several states, including Illinois and New York, have passed similar resolutions recently, reflecting increased visibility and political engagement within the Muslim community (CAIR National, 2024).
“These recognitions are not just symbolic. They help foster a sense of belonging and challenge negative stereotypes that persist in society,” said Edward Ahmed Mitchell, Deputy Director of CAIR National, in a recent interview with NPR (NPR, April 2024).
The Florida resolutions specifically highlight the achievements of Muslim Americans in areas such as education, healthcare, business, and public service. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of promoting mutual respect and understanding among all Floridians, regardless of faith or background.
Legislative Leaders Speak Out
Representative Anna Eskamani, who introduced HR 8069, said in a statement:
“Florida’s diversity is its strength. By officially recognizing Muslim-American Heritage Month, we are sending a message that every community matters and that we value the contributions of our Muslim neighbors” (Florida House of Representatives, April 2025).
Senator Carlos Guillermo Smith, sponsor of the Senate resolution, echoed these sentiments:
“This resolution is about celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our great state. Muslim Americans are an integral part of Florida’s story, and their heritage deserves to be honored” (Florida Senate, April 2025).
Addressing Challenges: Hate Crimes and Misconceptions
Despite progress, Muslim Americans continue to face challenges, including discrimination and hate crimes. According to FBI data, anti-Muslim hate crimes in the United States increased by 16% in 2023, with Florida reporting 34 incidents, up from 28 the previous year (FBI Hate Crime Statistics, 2023).
Community leaders hope that officially recognizing Muslim-American Heritage Month will help combat prejudice and promote a more inclusive society.
“Education and awareness are key to overcoming ignorance and bigotry. This month gives us an opportunity to share our stories and build bridges,” said Imam Abdullah Jaber during his Friday sermon at Masjid Al-Ansar.
Community Outreach and Services
In addition to the religious service, the Miami event features a range of community outreach activities. CAIR-Florida attorneys and youth coordinators are on hand to provide legal counseling and orientation services. ICNA Relief’s food distribution aims to assist families facing economic hardship, while the South Florida Muslim Federation is connecting attendees with resources offered by its member organizations.
“Our goal is to serve the community and ensure that everyone feels supported and valued,” said a spokesperson for ICNA Relief at the event.
Building on Momentum
Advocates and lawmakers hope that the recognition of Muslim-American Heritage Month will become an annual tradition in Florida, inspiring other states to follow suit. CAIR-Florida has called for continued engagement with policymakers, educators, and civic leaders to ensure that the achievements and challenges of Muslim Americans remain in the public spotlight.
“This is just the beginning. We will keep working to promote justice, equality, and understanding for all,” said Mari Marks, CAIR-Florida Policy Director.
The Impact of Heritage Months
Heritage months, such as Black History Month and Hispanic Heritage Month, have played a significant role in promoting cultural awareness and education in the United States. Experts say recognizing Muslim-American Heritage Month can have similar benefits, fostering dialogue and reducing prejudice.
“When states recognize the heritage and contributions of minority communities, it not only validates their experiences but also educates the broader public. This leads to stronger, more cohesive communities,” said Dr. Sahar Aziz, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Security, Race, and Rights at Rutgers University, in a recent op-ed for The Miami Herald (The Miami Herald, May 2025).
Media Coverage and Public Response
Local and national media have covered the announcement of Muslim-American Heritage Month, with positive reactions from civil rights groups, interfaith organizations, and community members. Social media platforms have seen an outpouring of support, with hashtags such as #MuslimAmericanHeritageMonth and #FloridaMuslims trending regionally.
“This is a proud day for Florida. Our state is showing the nation that diversity is something to be celebrated, not feared,” tweeted the South Florida Muslim Federation on Thursday.
A Step Toward Greater Inclusion
The Florida Legislature’s recognition of Muslim-American Heritage Month marks a significant step toward greater inclusion and understanding in the state. As South Florida Muslims gather at Masjid Al-Ansar to celebrate, community leaders and advocates emphasize the importance of continuing the work to promote justice, equality, and respect for all.
Looking ahead, organizers hope that this milestone will inspire further progress, both in Florida and across the country. As Imam Nasir Ahmad concluded in his remarks:
“We are proud to be part of Florida’s story. Our heritage is American heritage, and together we will continue to build a more just and compassionate society for future generations”