The Texas House of Representatives approved a resolution on Tuesday recognizing March 7, 2023, as “Texas Muslim Capitol Day.”
The resolution states that Texas “made history” in 2022 with the election of the first two Muslims to the Legislature: State Reps. Suleman Lalani (D–Sugar Land) and Salman Bhojani (D–Euless).
“The Muslim community is one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas, with almost 500,000 residents who identify as Muslim, constituting 1.7 percent of the state’s population,” the resolution states.
“The unwavering dedication of the leaders from the Islamic community in the State of Texas has served as an impetus for a more equal and altruistic population.”
The resolution also says, “By bringing their perspectives to the legislative forum, members of the Muslim community are contributing to the dialogue on policy issues and helping to work toward a brighter future for all residents of the Lone Star State.”
The Muslim Day resolution was sent to the the House Resolutions Committee, which is chaired by Democrat State Rep. Bobby Guerra (Mission), before being approved by the entire House.
Not every member supported the resolution, however. The following members voted “no” on Tuesday:
Charles “Doc” Anderson (R–Waco)
Cecil Bell (R–Magnolia)
Briscoe Cain (R–Deer Park)
Caroline Harris (R–Round Rock)
Cody Harris (R–Palestine)
Brian Harrison (R–Midlothian)
Richard Hayes (R–Denton)
Cole Hefner (R–Mt. Pleasant)
Dennis Paul (R–Houston)
Nate Schatzline (R–Ft. Worth)
Carl Tepper (R–Lubbock)
Ellen Troxclair (R–Spicewood)
Cody Vasut (R–Angleton)
All other members had their names added to the resolution, extending “to all those participating sincere best wishes for an enjoyable and memorable visit to Austin.”
