Press Release: 4/3/2025

Senator Eldridge Honored with CAIR-MA Champion of Justice Award for Advocacy on Behalf of American Muslims

 

Apr 2

Wayland, MA – On Thursday, March 13, State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough) was presented with the Champion of Justice Award by the Council on American-Islamic Relations Massachusetts (CAIR-MA) for his consistent advocacy on behalf of American Muslims through both legislative leadership and community partnership.

This legislative session, for the second time, Senator Eldridge filed “An Act Promoting the Civil Rights and Inclusion of American Muslims in the Commonwealth.” Modeled after existing state commissions representing women, African Americans, Asian Americans, Latinos, and most recently a commission on anti-Semitism, this bill aims to establish a full-time state commission on American Muslim affairs to ensure that American Muslims have equal representation in state policy-making and government decision-making.

As part of his ongoing efforts, Senator Eldridge has built strong relationships with local Islamic communities, including attending weekly community iftars in Ramadan and having continuous dialogues about challenges the community faces. He organized and co-hosted a community forum on Islamophobia last year at the Islamic Center of Boston (ICB Wayland). The event brought together Muslim students and professionals to share personal experiences with discrimination and Islamophobia, while community members and interfaith leaders from local synagogues, churches, and spiritual centers attended in solidarity to listen and learn. 

“American Muslims are a vibrant and essential part of our communities, contributing to every sector of our society,” said Senator Eldridge. “In my years of public service, I have never seen the kind of diversity, racial, ethnic, professional, and generational, that I have witnessed in the Muslim community. At the same time, I recognize that Islamophobia is real and persistent, and I am committed to fighting against this form of discrimination through legislation, public dialogue, and community partnership. I am deeply honored to receive CAIR’s Champion of Justice Award and will continue to fight for equity, dignity, and representation for the Islamic community across the Commonwealth.”

“Senator Eldridge’s leadership is making a tangible difference in the lives of American Muslims across Massachusetts,” said Tahirah Amatul-Wadud, Executive Director of CAIR-MA. “He exemplifies what it means to be a friend and a champion for justice –showing up, listening, and taking legislative action to combat Islamophobia and promote equity. We’re proud to honor him with this award.” 

“Senator Eldridge is someone who doesn't just represent his constituents, but immerses himself in their lives, taking the time to meet, listen, and understand the rich diversity that makes up their community,” said Noura Guermazi, President of Islamic Center of Boston of Wayland (ICB-Wayland). “By embracing the experiences of every individual, especially minorities like Muslims, he not only serves but stands as a beacon of empathy and unity in a divided world."