Washington: Human Rights First has condemned Texas Governor Greg Abbott after he designated the Council on American Islamic Relations as a foreign terrorist organisation. The group said the Governor has no authority to make such a declaration and called the action unlawful. CAIR is a registered nonprofit and is the largest Muslim civil rights organisation in the United States. Human Rights First said the designation reflects an anti Muslim political agenda.
The organisation noted the Governor’s claim that CAIR seeks to impose Sharia law. It said this accusation promotes anti Muslim rhetoric and creates fear toward immigrants and communities of color. It linked the move to a broader pattern of political attacks on nonprofit organisations. The group said the action aligns with the approach of the Trump administration, which often targeted Muslim groups through policies and statements.
Hanah Stiverson, Associate Director of Democracy Protection at Human Rights First, said the decision showed a disregard for constitutional rights. She said it was an attempt to undermine democratic norms. Human Rights First President and CEO Uzra Zeya said the move should concern all Americans. She said it was unlawful and aimed at a respected organisation that supports religious freedom and equal rights. She linked the action to earlier policies that harmed Muslim communities, including the travel ban imposed during the Trump presidency.
Human Rights First urged members of Congress and other elected officials to respond. The organisation asked them to challenge efforts that target Muslim civil rights groups and to defend democratic protections.
