(OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 3/29/2021) — The Oklahoma chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-OK) today announced that Imam Imad Enchassi will become the first Imam (Islamic prayer leader) to offer a prayer on the Oklahoma Senate Floor. This comes four years after a discriminatory change in rules for the Oklahoma House of Representatives Guest Chaplain program led to Imam Enchassi being banned from delivering prayer on the House floor.

SEE: OKC Muslim Imam Invited to Pray at State Capitol https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2021/03/21/muslim-lead-oklahoma-senate-prayer-after-earlier-rejection/4735851001/
SEE: New Chaplain Rules for Oklahoma House Called Discriminatory Against Minority Religions
https://tulsaworld.com/news/local/new-chaplain-rules-for-oklahoma-house-called-discriminatory-against-minority-religions/article_d7dd07ce-facf-5657-802b-22508a3a5339.html

Today Imam Imad Enchassi will lead the opening prayer on the Senate floor at 1:30 p.m (Central time). The prayer can be viewed in person from the Senate Gallery or via live stream at: https://oksenate.gov/live-chamber

“Today marks a culmination of much of the efforts we have put forth in ensuring that the Oklahoma Muslim community is fully represented in all facets of our local government,” said CAIR-OK Executive Director Adam Soltani. “Much of the modern history of Oklahoma Muslims and the state legislature is tainted by Islamophobia and anti-Muslim bigotry. Today’s historic event is a step toward healing and a cause for celebration as our state moves in the direction of embracing the full diversity of religions in our state.”

This historic prayer coincides with the 7th year in which CAIR-OK has hosted its annual Oklahoma Muslim Day at the Capitol providing a consistent opportunity for Oklahoma’s Muslim community to engage with their elected officials.

SEE: Oklahoma ‘Muslim Day at the Capitol’ will be virtual for 2021
https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2021/03/18/oklahoma-muslim-day-capitol-virtual-2021/4735686001/

CAIR-OK is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Our mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

La misión de CAIR es mejorar la comprensión del Islam, fomentar el diálogo, proteger las libertades civiles, capacitar a los musulmanes estadounidenses, y construir coaliciones que promuevan la justicia y la comprensión mutua.

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CONTACT: Adam Soltani, CAIR-OK Executive Director, 405-248-5853, asoltani@cair.com