June 10: Rally In Raleigh Against Islamophobia And Racism
Raleigh, NC – Hundreds of North Carolinians plan to rally 10AM Saturday at Halifax Mall in Raleigh at the United Against Islamophobia and Racism rally; uniting Muslim organizations and community allies against Islamophobia, racism, and white nationalism emboldened by Trump’s administration.
The counter-rally is organized by local activist groups, Muslims for Social Justice, Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia, and North Carolina Asian Americans Together. It takes place during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, a time of spirituality, contemplation, and celebration for Muslims.
The United Against Islamophobia and Racism rally will take place at the same time as an anti-Muslim gathering at the State Capitol in Raleigh, part of a national action organized by “ACT for America” in 27 cities across the country. Considered an extremist hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, ACT for America targets Muslim communities and demonizes Islam as a fear mongering tactic. Its founding member, Brigitte Gabriel, was quoted as saying that Islam is “a natural threat to the civilized people of the world.”
“While bigotry and discrimination are employed to breed fear and hatred in the community, we have a choice to build a movement that advances social justice and human rights for all,” said Manzoor Cheema of Muslims for Social Justice. “We need organized community safety responses led by Muslims, Black youth, immigrants, and people of color.”
“North Carolina is my home,” said George Friday of Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia. “I know that the people who care about this state and care about their neighbors are not going to be manipulated by people who are using racism as a trick to maintain power.”
When: 10AM Saturday, June 10th
Where: Halifax Mall, Raleigh, NC
Who: Muslims for Social Justice, Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia, North Carolina Asian Americans Together, and other community members
What: A rally with speakers, homemade banners and signs
Social Media: #CounterACTHate