By: Lalani H.C.R. No. 80
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, An estimated 500,000 people in the state of Texas
practice Islam, marking Texas as the state with the fifth largest
Muslim population, with the majority residing in the cities of
Houston and Dallas; and,
WHEREAS, With more than 338 mosques and Islamic centers,
Texas has the largest Muslim population in the Southern United
States; and,
WHEREAS, Countless members of Texas' Muslim American
community have devoted their lives to service, extending support
and assistance to communities across the state through charitable
donations and community organizations; and,
WHEREAS, The Muslim community fosters compassion and peace
through the tenets of their religion, which include zakat (giving)
as an obligatory religious practice; and,
WHEREAS, With over seven decades of being a vital part of
Texas communities and contributing in a variety of ways around the
state, it is imperative that their services for the state of Texas
are celebrated; and,
WHEREAS, There are many prominent Muslim figures in Texas and
countless other Muslim individuals, including medical
professionals, first responders, teachers, among many more, who
have devoted their lives to serving the residents of the Lone Star
state; and,
WHEREAS, The Texas Muslim American Heritage Month
Celebration will encourage recognition of the contributions made by
Muslim-Americans to the state's culture, social services,
education, politics, business, technology, and arts; and, now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 88th Legislature of the State of Texas
honor and celebrate its Muslim American Community as it continues
to be an integral part of the State and looks forward to
highlighting the beauty and diversity of the Muslim American
culture; and, be it further
RESOLVED, We declare the Month of May as Muslim Heritage
Month in the State of Texas.
RESOLVED, That the 88th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate May as Muslim Heritage Month; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section
391.004(d), Government Code, this designation remain in effect
until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally
passed by the legislature.