1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my profound concern and strong opposition to the recent designation of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a "foreign terrorist organization" and "transnational criminal organization" by Governor Abbott. I believe this designation is not only deeply misguided but also unsupported by evidence and fundamentally at odds with the principles of our Constitution. Firstly, the proclamation issued by Governor Abbott lacks any specific, verifiable evidence to substantiate such grave accusations against CAIR. While the statement makes broad claims about "forcibly imposing Sharia law" and supporting "terrorism," it fails to provide concrete instances or a detailed evidentiary basis for designating a well-established American civil rights organization as a terrorist entity. Such serious allegations demand transparent and irrefutable proof, which has not been presented. Secondly, CAIR is widely recognized as the largest Muslim civil rights organization in the United States, with a mission to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding. Its work primarily involves legal advocacy, community organizing, and public education – activities consistent with those of other civil rights groups across the nation. To label such an organization as a terrorist group undermines the very concept of civil liberties and sets a dangerous precedent for all advocacy groups. Thirdly, this designation raises serious constitutional concerns, particularly regarding the First Amendment rights to free speech, assembly, and religious freedom. CAIR has already filed a federal lawsuit challenging this designation as "unconstitutional and defamatory," citing a pattern of successful legal challenges against the Governor's previous attempts to suppress constitutionally protected activities. As CAIR’s General Counsel, Lena Masri, aptly stated, "No civil rights organisations are safe if a governor can baselessly and unilaterally declare any of them terrorist groups, ban them from buying land, and threaten them with closure." This action has the potential to chill legitimate advocacy and speech, especially when it concerns minority communities. Furthermore, this designation has been widely condemned by civil rights organizations and political figures across the country. The Texas Democratic Party described it as "dangerous, racist, and Islamophobic," while U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar labeled Governor Abbott a "bigot," emphasizing that "the normalisation of anti-Muslim hate speech is vile." This broad condemnation underscores the perception that this action is discriminatory and baseless. Finally, the context surrounding this designation suggests it may be politically motivated, particularly aimed at stifling criticism of government policies and pro-Palestinian advocacy. CAIR has been a vocal critic of certain U.S. foreign policies and a strong advocate for Palestinian rights, a stance that Governor Abbott, a staunch supporter of Israel, has previously targeted, even going so far as to suggest pro-Palestinian student protesters "belong in jail." This pattern indicates a targeting of dissent rather than a genuine concern for national security. I urge you to reconsider this unfounded designation. Protecting the constitutional rights of all Texans, regardless of their faith or political views, is paramount. I ask that you publicly withdraw this baseless designation and uphold the principles of due process and freedom of speech that are cornerstones of our state and nation.