“We’re Not a Checkbox”: EPIC Forum Erupts in Fiery Debate, Showcasing Muslim Voters’ Growing Political Clout
Energy, Accountability, and Unapologetic Civic Engagement Define Packed Candidate Night
The East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) was alive with energy, as a diverse group of candidates and community members gathered for a spirited forum. Moderated by Mustafa Syed, the event drew a full house, reflecting the vibrancy and engagement of the local Muslim community.
“When you’re here to speak to us today and solicit our votes, we’re not just here to vote and call it a day,” Syed began. “We expect you to respond to our wishes, to what we voted for you for, and to not just check a box.”
Candidates from both major parties—including Iranian-born American Abteen Vaziri, Rick Grady, Mark Newgent, Andrew Hunt, Jason Pearce, Andrew Rubell, Anthony Bridges, Zeeshan Hafeez, Orlando Lopez, Jordan Wheatley, and State Representative Mihaela Plesa—came together to discuss issues that matter to Muslims and the broader community.
Sharia Remarks Spark Tension
The evening’s most charged moment came when congressional hopeful Abteen Vaziri sharply criticized Sharia law, triggering audible reactions from attendees. For many Muslims, Sharia is not a political slogan but a broad ethical framework guiding personal faith and daily conduct — often misunderstood and mischaracterized in American political discourse.
The remarks led to visible tension in the room, and at one point an attendee had to be physically restrained as emotions escalated.
Yet even amid the friction, the forum did not devolve into chaos. Community members largely responded with pointed rebuttals and calls for clarity, underscoring both the sensitivity of the issue and the community’s insistence on respectful dialogue.
The exchange served as a reminder of how discussions around Islam and public life remain politically charged — and why Muslim voters are increasingly demanding nuance and understanding from those seeking their support.
Grady and Newgent supported EPIC. “I know many of you, because I’ve been out here so many times. It is always the most warming and friendly place for me to be,” Grady said. “I count it as sort of my third home.”
Newgent urged Democrats to vote for him in the Republican primary.
The February 9 forum featured passionate exchanges, with Vaziri raising challenging questions about Sharia law. The audience responded with conviction, demonstrating the community’s commitment to open dialogue and respectful debate. Even when discussions grew tense, attendees showed restraint and a willingness to engage thoughtfully.
Throughout the evening, candidates and community members addressed global issues, including the struggles faced by Muslims in Iran and the importance of solidarity. The event highlighted EPIC’s role as a hub for civic engagement, where tough questions are welcomed, and diverse perspectives are valued.
The forum became tense when congressional hopeful Abteen Vaziri directly criticized Sharia law, drawing audible reactions from the audience and culminating in one attendee being physically restrained.
As the forum concluded, the warmth and unity of the EPIC community shone through. Candidates praised the center’s welcoming atmosphere, and attendees left inspired by the power of collective action and the promise of a brighter future for all.