More than 750 delegates from across the country convened on Capitol Hill to advocate for civil rights, oppose discriminatory travel bans, and call for U.S. action against global human rights abuses during the 10th Annual Muslim Advocacy Day.
The U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO), the largest umbrella organization representing American Muslim civil society, celebrated a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of its 10th Annual Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill. This year’s theme, “Upholding Civil Rights, Defending Free Speech, and Advocating for Justice,” highlighted the urgent need for collective action on pressing issues affecting the American Muslim community.
Over 750 delegates from 27 states traveled to Washington, D.C., from April 28 to April 29, engaging in discussions with representatives from more than 210 congressional offices. In addition to scheduled meetings, state delegations conducted numerous drop-by visits to amplify their advocacy efforts.
The delegates focused on several critical issues during their meetings with members of Congress, including:
- Protecting Free Speech and Nonprofit Advocacy Rights: Advocates urged lawmakers to safeguard these rights as legislative threats and investigations reminiscent of the McCarthy era increasingly target Muslim, Arab, Palestinian, allied Jewish, and other community organizations.
- Opposing Discriminatory Travel Bans: Participants called for support of the NO BAN Act and rejected any reimplementation of extreme visa restrictions affecting Muslim-majority countries.
- Demanding U.S. Action Against Genocide and Human Rights Abuses: Delegates emphasized the need for the U.S. to take action against the violence and oppression faced by Muslim communities in Gaza, Sudan, China (Xinjiang), Burma (Myanmar), and India.
USCMO Secretary General Oussama Jammal expressed pride in the event, stating, “This year’s 10th Annual National Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill powerfully demonstrated the unwavering civic commitment of the American Muslim community. Our voices rang out with moral clarity and conviction as we addressed pressing issues—from protecting free speech to rejecting discriminatory travel bans and calling for justice in regions facing genocide.”
Jammal emphasized the importance of solidarity, noting the collaboration with student protesters and allied advocacy organizations. “At every meeting, we demanded accountability, justice, and policies that reflect the dignity and rights of all people,” he said.
Robert S. McCaw, Chair of the USCMO National Muslim Advocacy Day Steering Committee and CAIR Director of Government Affairs underscored the significance of the event, stating, “The presence of hundreds of Muslim delegates in Congress expanded our community’s reach and relationships. As Congress continues to fund foreign governments responsible for atrocities, including Israel’s actions in Gaza, our advocacy served as a moral counterweight. We reminded legislators that our communities will not be complicit in funding war crimes or remaining silent as free speech is criminalized.”
In addition to meetings with congressional representatives, USCMO organized a policy and advocacy training session at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center on Monday morning, equipping participants with essential tools and talking points to effectively advocate for civil rights and foreign policy issues.
Delegates operated from the Rayburn House Office Building throughout the week, providing a strategic hub for coordinated advocacy efforts. This setup facilitated efficient communication and collaboration among attendees, amplifying the impact of the 10th Annual Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill.
