Mayor Eduardo Martinez
City of Richmond
April 22, 2025
Recognizing April 2025 as
American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month
WHEREAS, enriched by the unparalleled diversity of its residents, the City of Richmond takes great pride in supporting individual religious freedoms and is strengthened by the many varied religious, political, and cultural traditions and contributions of its diverse populations, including those that practice Islam; and
WHEREAS, the history of Islam in this country dates to before its founding, originating with enslaved Africans who brought their Muslim 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 various backgrounds and beliefs.
Approximately 1,000,000 American Muslims currently reside in California, the highest number of any state in the United States; and
WHEREAS, over 30,000 Muslims live in Contra Costa County, and make innumerable contributions to the cultural, political, and economic fabric and well-being of California and the United States; and
WHEREAS, in 2024, the Council on American-Islamic Relations received 8,658 complaints nationwide, the highest number in its 30-year history, reflecting a 7.4% increase from 2023; and
WHEREAS, the City of Richmond’s mosques have played a pivotal role in supporting members of the Muslim community and others in this city; and
WHEREAS, Masjid Al-Rahman, founded in 1995, which hosts weekly congregational prayers for over 300 attendees and conducts food bank distribution twice a week for the Richmond community, regardless of faith; and
WHEREAS, Masjid Al-Noor offers a range of services, including the five daily prayers and Jumu'ah prayers, providing a space for worship, spiritual connection, and programs designed to support individuals in deepening their knowledge and understanding of Islamic teachings; and
WHEREAS, the Muslim Mission Center works to foster a better understanding of Islam locally through education and outreach programs, offering a variety of services for their congregants, such as an Islamic school, family counseling, funeral services, and more; and
WHEREAS, the city council acknowledges the importance of local government in advocating for peace and justice, understanding that Muslims everywhere deserve to live in peace and safety; and
WHEREAS, it is appropriate to acknowledge and promote awareness of the myriads of invaluable contributions of American Muslims in California and across the country and extend to them the respect and camaraderie every American deserves.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Eduardo Martinez, on behalf of the Richmond City Council, do hereby recognize the California State Designation of April 2025 as American Muslim Appreciation and Awareness Month to acknowledge the rich history, contributions, and guiding virtues of Muslims and to commend all Muslim communities in California for the lasting positive impact they have made toward the advancement of our city and country.