US Muslim Leaders Urge Trump to Reject Anti-Islam Appointees

Updated Aug 2023

Muslim leaders have written an open letter urging President-elect Donald Trump to reconsider his appointment of individuals to the new administration with an anti-Islamic bias. The letter expresses concern that Trump’s selection will increase prejudice against Muslims, citing a 67% rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes in 2015 and increased hate crimes against Muslims since the September 11 attacks.

The Council of American Islamic Relations has separately raised concerns about Trump’s choices, mentioning Kansas Representative Mike Pompeo and former Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn as particular examples. Flynn has referred to Islam as a “vicious cancer,” while Pompeo has attributed attacks by Islamic extremists to Muslim leaders. Over 300 Muslim community leaders and scholars signed the letter, the first public communication to the new administration from US Muslim leaders.

The letter further calls on Trump to denounce bigotry, hate crimes and bias-based school bullying against all Americans, including Muslims. Though the Trump administration has yet to respond to the letter, Robert McCaw, the government affairs director of the Council of American Islamic Relations, said that the relationship between the Obama administration and the organisation had been generally positive but occasionally strained.

Concerns over Anti-Islamic Bias in Appointments

The appointment of individuals with an anti-Islamic bias to the new administration has raised concerns among Muslim leaders. The letter highlights the potential consequences of such appointments, citing a significant rise in anti-Muslim hate crimes in recent years and increased discrimination against Muslims since the September 11 attacks. These concerns reflect the need for a more inclusive and tolerant approach to governance and the recognition of the diverse contributions of Muslim Americans.

Muslim leaders and organizations, such as the Council of American Islamic Relations, have specifically expressed concerns about individuals like Kansas Representative Mike Pompeo and former Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn. Their past statements and views on Islam have been seen as promoting prejudice and stereotypes. The letter serves as a call to reconsider these appointments and to promote a more respectful and inclusive atmosphere for all Americans, regardless of their religious beliefs.

Promoting Denouncement of Bigotry and Hate Crimes

The open letter also calls on President-elect Donald Trump to denounce bigotry, hate crimes, and bias-based school bullying against all Americans, including Muslims. This reflects the broader issue of combating discrimination and fostering an environment of acceptance and respect. By denouncing these acts, the letter emphasizes the importance of leadership in setting the tone for the nation and sending a message of inclusivity.

The concerns expressed by Muslim leaders highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to address hate crimes and discriminatory acts. This includes not only denouncing such acts but also implementing policies and initiatives that promote understanding, dialogue, and education. By actively addressing these issues, the new administration can contribute to fostering a more harmonious and tolerant society.

The Role of Muslim Community Leaders in Engaging with the New Administration

The open letter represents the first public communication to the new administration from US Muslim leaders. It highlights the role of Muslim community leaders in actively engaging with the government and expressing their concerns and expectations. By signing the letter, over 300 Muslim community leaders and scholars are seeking to establish a dialogue and influence the policies and decisions of the incoming administration.

This engagement demonstrates the importance of diverse voices in shaping public discourse and decision-making processes. Through open communication and constructive engagement, Muslim community leaders aim to promote understanding, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for policies that foster inclusivity and justice. The response of the Trump administration to this communication will be indicative of its willingness to engage with and address the concerns of the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the open letter from Muslim leaders raises concerns over the appointment of individuals with anti-Islamic bias to the new administration. It calls for a denouncement of bigotry, hate crimes, and bias-based school bullying against all Americans, including Muslims. The engagement of Muslim community leaders with the new administration highlights the importance of dialogue and inclusivity in shaping governance. The response of the Trump administration to these concerns will be critical in shaping the relationship between the government and the Muslim community in the United States.