Today, the Council on American-Islamic Relations – Massachusetts (CAIR-MA) will publish its 2023 Civil Rights Report, a comprehensive analysis revealing an alarming rise in Islamophobia and discrimination against the Muslim community in the Commonwealth. Facing the highest number of legal assistance requests since its inception, CAIR-MA shared a historic increase in hate crimes, employment discrimination, and widespread harassment. 2023’s data indicated double the number of legal requests, a 40% uptick in hate crime reports, and a dramatic 385% surge in calls for help with employment issues. The escalation of challenges was particularly pronounced in the fourth quarter, following the onset of the war in Gaza, which has had a profound and continuing effect into 2024.

The report documents several distressing incidents, including an attack on a young Muslim woman by a coworker, the harassment of a Muslim student at Harvard University, and numerous instances of bullying and discrimination against Muslim children in primary and secondary schools. These incidents represent only a fraction of the cases CAIR-MA has addressed and showcase the widespread impact of the national dehumanization of Muslims and Arabs on our local community.

This rise in anti-Muslim violence is a national trend and in part fueled by the policies and rhetoric of politicians and mainstream media in response to the war in Gaza. CAIR National’s Research and Advocacy Director Corey Saylor adds that CAIR’s latest research “documents the highest number of incoming complaints in its 30-year history,” reflecting “the context of the domestic fallout of the genocide against Palestinians in Gaza” and its impact on Muslims domestically. In light of this national report, multiple recommendations will be offered to public officials as we continue to advocate for safety for Muslim communities.

CAIR-MA Executive Director Tahirah Amatul-Wadud said:

“The past year has been a test of our resilience and solidarity. The escalation of legal requests and the nature of the incidents reported to us reflect an unacceptable trend of Islamophobia that we must confront together. Our work is far from over, and we pledge to continue fighting for justice and equality for every member of our community.”

The report also outlines CAIR-MA’s efforts to counteract these challenges, including opposing a state bill that would change the state’s antidiscrimination law by falsely equating criticism of the Israeli government with antisemitism and joining a major lawsuit against the federal terrorism watch list. In addition, CAIR-MA has worked tirelessly to provide support and resources to those affected by discrimination and hate, including crafting numerous “know your rights” guides and coordinating legal assistance for pro-Palestinian activists facing social and professional backlash.

As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, CAIR-MA calls on allies, community members, and policymakers to join in solidarity with the Muslim community here in the United States against Islamophobia. “With the worsening crisis in Gaza, we see a correlation to an increase in Islamophobia at home,” said Amatul-Wadud. “Together, we can address these challenges and work towards a future where all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs, are treated with dignity and respect. CAIR-MA is committed to leading this work across the Commonwealth.”