MCD participants to lobby on bills related to Islamophobia, civil rights, criminal justice, hate crimes, voting rights, and immigrants’ rights on the agenda of the state legislature
(PHILADELPHIA, PA, 5/21/2025) — On Thursday, May 22, Delaware’s Muslim community, along with the Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia) and the office of the Delaware State Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton, will participate in the Second Annual Delaware Muslim Capitol Day (MCD) at the State Capitol Complex in Dover, Delaware.
MCD participants will visit the offices of their elected state senators and representatives. During these meetings, the participants will advocate for the needs of American Muslims residing in the State of Delaware and lobby in support of bills that address Islamophobia, civil rights, criminal justice, hate crimes, voting rights, and immigrants’ rights.
The high point of this day of legislative advocacy will be a press conference and rally on the Eastern Steps of the State Capitol Complex from 12:15 pm to 12:45 pm, with speakers from the community and state legislature.
WHAT: 2nd Annual Delaware Muslim Capitol Day
WHEN: Thursday, May 22, 2025, 9 am – 2 pm
WHERE: Delaware Public Archives and State Capitol Complex, Dover, DE
PRESS CONFERENCE AND RALLY: Eastern Steps, 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
MORE INFORMATION: pa.cair.com/events/mcd-de/
Press Conference Agenda:
- Welcome Remarks by Delaware State Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton
- Remarks by Ahmet Tekelioglu, Executive Director of CAIR-Philadelphia
- Remarks by Geeda Al-Haffar, State Director, Emgage Pennsylvania
- Remarks by participating students and mosque leaders
- Remarks by Delaware based community activist and artist Tone Trump
In a statement, Delaware State Representative Madinah Wilson-Anton said:
“I look forward to this event every year as an opportunity for community members to make their concerns heard and to continue to build relationships with their elected representatives.”
In a statement, CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Ahmet Tekelioglu said:
“Muslim Capitol Day in Delaware is a powerful reminder that our democracy flourishes when every community has a seat at the table. By meeting directly with lawmakers, Muslim Delawareans — and their allies across state lines — will affirm their shared commitment to religious freedom, equal opportunity, and dignity for all. CAIR Philadelphia is proud to stand with our neighbors as we transform civic engagement into concrete policy solutions that keep the integrity of the Constitution, expand accommodations, and protect the civil rights of every resident. Together, we are building a more inclusive Delaware — and a stronger America.”
In a statement, Emgage Pennsylvania State Director, Geeda Al-Haffar said:
“Muslim Capitol Day is about empowering our communities to engage directly with the political process and make their voices heard. Muslim Americans are a vital part of Delaware’s civic life, and this event — held in partnership with leaders like Rep. Madinah Wilson-Anton — is a celebration of our contributions, our leadership, and our shared commitment to building a more inclusive and just future for all.”
The goals of Muslim Capitol Day are:
- To raise the awareness of elected officials about Islamophobia stemming from certain politicians and media outlets.
- To encourage and increase the participation of American Muslims in the democratic political process.
- To work together with other groups and communities in building of a more equitable society, regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, or racial background.
Delaware Muslim Capitol Day’s 2025 Legislative Agenda includes:
- Seeking Support for Combating Islamophobia & Protecting Muslim Rights
- Respecting Freedom of Speech
- Ensuring Access to Halal Meals & Addressing Food Insecurity in Delaware
- Promoting Religious Accommodations Including Prayer Spaces and Holiday Provisions
- Protecting Immigrant Communities in Delaware
- Probation Reform to Ensure Equity in Criminal Justice
