By Bob Katzen

This bill would create an 11-member permanent Commission on the Status of People who Practice Islam to serve as a resource on issues affecting American Muslim communities in the Bay State.

The duties of the commission include informing the public and leaders of business, education, human services, health care, state and local governments and the communications media of the unique cultural, social, ethnic, economic and educational issues affecting American Muslims; fostering unity among the American Muslim community and organizations by promoting cooperation and sharing of information and encouraging collaboration and joint activities; identifying and recommending qualified American Muslims for appointive positions at all levels of government; and assessing programs and practices in all state agencies as they affect American Muslims.

“Massachusetts is home to many Muslim Americans, and it is long overdue that we look at our inclusion practices and take a step further,” said Senate sponsor Sen. Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough). “This bill promotes the civil rights and inclusion of American Muslims in the commonwealth, and I am confident that the commission will do an excellent job researching and identifying existing issues, and seeking new opportunities as they safeguard the civil rights of American Muslims.”