Tell Congress You Oppose Xenophobia and Congressman King's Hearings on the Muslim Community - Take Action!

On March 10, Congressman Peter King of New York convened a hearing on "The Extent of Radicalization in the American Muslim Community and That Community's Response." This hearing raised serious concerns for South Asians in the United States as it calls into question the loyalty of an entire community simply based on their faith. It also perpetuates the dangerous notion that one's religion should result in heightened scrutiny, while failing to assess constructive solutions to keep our country safe.

This hearing occured within the backdrop of a rising tide of Islamophobia and the broader anti-immigrant climate existing in this country. Over the past ten years, South Asian, Muslim, Sikh, and Arab Americans have been targeted through hate crimes, discrimination, and profiling based on pernicious misperceptions that these communities are national security threats.

Certain members of Congress have already spoken out - over 50 Representatives signed a letter to Congressman King objecting to the hearing's focus on the Muslim community. Congressman John Conyers of Michigan is also introducing a resolution stating that the federal government should take steps to counter rhetoric and violence against Muslim, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian American communities; and that future hearings should focus on behavior rather than beliefs and activities protected by the First Amendment, such as religion.

It is crucial that the South Asian community members make our voices heard and call upon our Congress to stand for tolerance, religious freedom, and diversity, and oppose xenophobia, bigotry, and profiling. Urge your Representative to co-sponsor Congressman Conyers' resolution. If you live in Representative King's district, once you enter your zip code below, you can send him a message directly expressing your deep disappointment in the hearing.

Note: Please feel free to personalize the message below to your member of Congress - the more personal, the better.