On June 23, Gov. Jay Inslee issued a proclamation making the month of July Muslim American Heritage Month. Muslim American Heritage Month celebrates the contributions of Muslim Americans in Washington. Washington State is home to more than 50 mosques and has a growing Muslim community. Muslim Americans in Washington State include immigrant and refugee communities from Afghanistan, Somalia, Senegal, Syria, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Iraq, Iran, Vietnam, Egypt, Pakistan, Palestine, India, Gambia, and more.
Here are ways to support the Muslim community and a list of resources to learn more.
How to support the Muslim community
- Practice inclusive scheduling and be mindful of prayer times.
- Respect gender boundaries and Islamic guidelines for gender interactions.
- Support Muslim-led initiatives.
- During the month of Ramadan, be considerate of those who are fasting.
- Check in with your Muslim friends, neighbors, colleagues, etc.
Resources
Governor's Proclamation on Muslim American Heritage Month
Muslim Association of Puget Sound
Seattle Public Library: Muslim-focused teen literature