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A resolution recognizing January 2026 as Muslim American Heritage Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
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WHEREAS, Muslim Americans have been an integral part of the fabric of the United States for more than four centuries, contributing to the nation’s growth through public service, military service, entrepreneurship, scholarship, arts, sciences, and civic leadership; and
WHEREAS, at least ten percent of the 10 million enslaved Africans brought to North America were of Muslim origin. Though the cruelties of slavery attempted to separate people from their practiced religion, records document individuals maintaining practice of daily prayers, fasting, and reciting the Qur’an; and
WHEREAS, from the founding of the United States, Muslims have enriched the fabric of the society of the United States as business owners, entrepreneurs, health care professionals, humanitarians, scientists, and activists; and
WHEREAS, Nashville and Davidson County are home to a vibrant and growing Muslim American community, whose members contribute significantly to the social, cultural, economic, and spiritual life of the community; and
WHEREAS, among Nashville and Davidson County’s diverse Muslim population is the one of the largest and most vibrant Kurdish communities in the United States of America. Nashville is home to one of the first Kurdish mosques in the country; and
WHEREAS, nearly 50 percent of Muslim Americans have reported experiencing religious discrimination; and
WHEREAS, Muslim American Heritage Month provides an opportunity to recognize and honor the achievements, traditions, and contributions of Muslim Americans, while also promoting understanding, inclusion, and mutual respect among all residents of Nashville and Davidson County; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper for the Metropolitan Council to honor and bring awareness to the many accomplishments and contributions made by members of the Islamic community.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as recognizing January 2026 as Muslim American Heritage Month in Nashville and Davidson County.
Section 2. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.