Santa Clara officially proclaimed April 2025 as American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month during a City Council meeting on April 8. The initiative celebrates the contributions of American Muslims to the city’s cultural, social, and economic fabric. The proclamation presentation at Santa Clara City Hall highlighted the importance of fostering understanding and combating Islamophobia.
Santa Clara Mayor Lisa M. Gillmor emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating, “The rich history and contributions of American Muslims have profoundly enriched our community. This proclamation is a step toward acknowledging their impact and promoting inclusivity.”
The Proclamation Ceremony
The presentation took place during the opening minutes of the City Council meeting at 7 p.m. The event was organized in collaboration with the San Francisco Bay Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. CAIR-SFBA Communications Manager Lorrie Adam expressed gratitude for the city’s efforts, saying, “This recognition is vital in promoting awareness and appreciation for the vibrant Muslim community in Santa Clara.”
The proclamation honors the city’s 60,000 Muslim residents, who contribute to various fields such as education, healthcare, technology, and business. It also acknowledges local mosques and community organizations that play pivotal roles in supporting Muslims and non-Muslims within Santa Clara.
A Broader Context: Statewide Recognition
California has been at the forefront of recognizing American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month. Since its inception eight years ago, the state has celebrated this observance annually, initially designating August as the official month. However, Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 133 (Wahab) shifted the recognition to April in 2025 to align with the academic calendar.
This change underscores efforts to integrate cultural awareness into educational institutions. Senator Wahab stated, “Moving this observance to April allows schools to actively participate in fostering understanding about Islam and appreciating Muslim contributions.”
Historical Contributions of Muslims in America
Muslim Americans have played a significant role in shaping U.S. history. Their contributions are vast, from Estevanico of Azamor, one of America’s first documented Muslim explorers in 1527, to modern-day professionals excelling across industries. Santa Clara County is home to a diverse population of Muslims tracing their roots in North Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East.
Morocco was the first to recognize U.S. sovereignty in 1777, establishing one of America’s longest-standing treaties. This historical connection highlights the longstanding relationship between Muslim-majority nations and the United States.
Rising Islamophobia: A Call for Action
While celebrating achievements, the proclamation also addresses challenges faced by American Muslims. CAIR reported a 419% increase in hate crimes or incidents targeting Muslims in 2023 compared to the previous year. Over 8,000 complaints were filed nationwide—the highest number recorded in CAIR’s 30-year history.
Santa Clara County Board of Education has committed to countering Islamophobia through education initiatives and policies promoting cultural competency. A resolution passed last year emphasized creating safe spaces for fostering understanding and implementing measures against religious intolerance.
Community Engagement
Local leaders have praised Santa Clara’s recognition of American Muslim Appreciation Month as an opportunity to strengthen community ties. Supervisor Otto Lee stated, “Celebrations like these are crucial for showcasing the diversity that makes Santa Clara County unique.”
The District 3 Office continues to support events honoring Muslim Americans while providing resources for residents interested in connecting with local organizations.
Legislative Support
California Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 45 (SCR45), introduced on March 24 by Senator Wahab and co-sponsored by multiple legislators, formally recognizes April as American Muslim Appreciation Month statewide. The resolution highlights Muslims' contributions to advancing California’s economic and cultural vibrancy.
SCR45 reflects bipartisan support for inclusivity and cultural awareness across communities. Senator Wahab remarked during its introduction that “recognizing this month is not just about celebration but also about standing against bigotry and fostering unity.”
Future Outlook
Santa Clara’s proclamation sets a precedent for other cities across California to recognize American Muslim Appreciation Month during April rather than August. The shift aligns with broader efforts to integrate cultural awareness into academic curricula while addressing rising hate crimes against Muslims.
As communities continue to celebrate this observance, leaders hope it will inspire more excellent dialogue about diversity and inclusion while combating prejudice through education and advocacy.
Mayor Gillmor summed up her vision for this initiative: “This month is not only an opportunity to celebrate but also a reminder that our strength lies in our diversity.”