WHEREAS, enriched by the unparalleled diversity of its residents, the City of Fresno takes great pride in supporting individual religious freedoms and is strengthened by the many varied religious, political, and cultural traditions that contribute to its diverse population , including those who practice Islam ; and
WHEREAS, the history of Islam in this country dates back to before its founding, originating with enslaved Africans who brought their Muslims beliefs with them to the Americas and who later contributed in numerous ways to the founding of the nation, and there are today millions of American Muslims, both immigrant and native -born, of diverse backgrounds and beliefs here in California; and
WHEREAS, the Central Valley Islamic Council (CVIC) brings together the mosques and Islamic centers to coordinate efforts and resources to support the Muslim community in Fresno. The mosques in Fresno include Masjid Fresno Islamic Center, Islamic Cultural Center of Fresno, Masjid al-Aqabah, MyDeen Islamic Center, Masjid Badr Islamic Center, and Mercy Center which have contributed to the pandemic efforts by gathering donations to assist those who need help with payments, distributing food groceries, sewing facemasks for frontline workers, and partnered with the Council on American-Isl amic Relations – Sacramento Valley/Central California (CAIR-SVCC) to provide COVID -19 related prevention education and vaccine information to the diverse Muslim community; and
WHEREAS, CVIC along with Dr. Humaira Mojadaddi, have supported dozens of new Af ghan families in Fresno through in-language support, providing transportation, connecting them to healthcare providers, offering cultural education and support to help them adjust into their communities ; and
WHEREAS, Muslims within California and throughout the nation strive to promote peace and understanding between all faiths, identities, and nationalities; yet still they face harassment, assault, and discrimination. It is therefore appropriate to acknowledge and promote awareness of the invaluable contr ibutions of Muslims in Fresno and across the country, and extend the respect and camaraderie every person deserves ; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Fresno, Mayor Dyer, and Fresno City Councilmembers do hereby proclaim August 2022 to be:
Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month
in the City of Fresno.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and
affixed the Great Seal of the City of Fresno, California, this 11 th day of August
2022.