Muslim Leaders Respond to Trump’s Re-election, Urge Action on Gaza and Inclusion of Minority Communities
Jafar Bhamji
11-06-2024
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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau congratulated Donald Trump on his re-election, emphasizing the importance of Canada-U.S. relations and shared economic interests. He cited the countries' work on the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) as a testament to their collaborative success, and noted that the deep ties between the two nations have brought economic growth and opportunity. Trudeau expressed optimism for further collaboration on trade, investment, and continental security, aiming to sustain their long-standing partnership.
Meanwhile, Trump’s return to office has sparked significant response from Muslim-American and civil rights organizations. CAIR Action, a major advocacy group for Muslim Americans, called on Trump to honor his campaign promise to end the ongoing war in Gaza. Many in the American Muslim community, frustrated with the current administration's foreign policy support for military actions in Gaza, have turned their focus to leaders who promote peace and human rights. Organizations like CAIR Action urged Trump to shift the U.S. foreign policy stance towards one that prioritizes humanitarian solutions and de-escalation in the Middle East.
Basim Elkarra, Executive Director of CAIR Action, emphasized the critical role the Gaza conflict played in this election. “Many voters supported candidates who endorsed peace and justice,” Elkarra said. “The genocide in Gaza motivated American Muslims and human rights advocates alike, sending a clear message to leaders to prioritize peace and justice.”
The re-election has also raised concerns among immigrant and Muslim communities over potential discriminatory policies, such as the revival of the Muslim Ban and threats of mass deportation. CAIR Action stressed the importance of unity and inclusion in Trump’s new term, urging him to recognize the value of diversity and work against policies that harm minority communities.
Similarly, the American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) extended congratulations to President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance, calling for a renewed commitment to inclusive governance. AHRC’s Executive Director Imad Hamad expressed hope that Trump would fulfill his pledges to address the Middle Eastern crises and end violence in Gaza. “We cannot afford to see prolonged suffering in the Middle East,” Hamad noted. “President Trump reached out to Muslim and Arab communities with promises to end the carnage, and we hope he will deliver on those promises.”
The AHRC called for a foreign policy approach based on human rights, respect for international law, and commitment to U.N. resolutions. Their hope is that Trump’s administration will address ongoing conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Lebanon, with humanitarian values at the forefront.
Many Muslim American leaders recall President Biden’s 2020 campaign, during which he had promised a foreign policy grounded in human rights and peace. Dr. Ihsan Alkhatib, a political science professor, noted the Muslim community’s disappointment with Biden's handling of Middle Eastern affairs, expressing optimism that the Trump administration would bring a more balanced approach.
As Trump’s second term approaches, organizations like CAIR and AHRC plan to maintain engagement with the administration to advocate for a more inclusive approach to both domestic and foreign policy. These leaders emphasize that American Muslims and other minority communities stand ready to hold the administration accountable for its promises on peace and inclusivity, hoping this new term can mark a positive shift toward justice and human rights.
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