On April 5, 2012, the Minnesota Muslim community will participate in the 8th Annual "Muslim Day at the Capitol." The event will include a 10 a.m. rally in the capitol rotunda. The annual event seeks to promote community engagement in local politics and to discuss issues of interest to the Muslim community with legislators. This year, the topics of interest include Islamophobia, anti-Muslim legislation, photo ID legislation, and gun violence. Scheduled speakers include Minnesota Muslim community leaders, Governor Mark Dayton, Secretary of State Mark Ritchie, and other elected officials. The afternoon will include appointments with the state representatives and senators.
Minnesota Muslims constitute one of the most diverse religious groups. Estimates of Muslims in Minnesota range from 100,000 to 150,000. According to Lori Saroya, CAIR-MN Executive Director, "As one of the nation's most educated and integrated religious communities, American Muslims have an important role to play in our society's social and political fabric. It is important that members of our community engage with state and national lawmakers to share innovative ways to help build a stronger America and a stronger Minnesota." Muslim Day at the Capitol is co-sponsored by Muslim American Society of Minnesota, Al-Amal School, Council on Islamic-American Relations-MN, Islamic Center of Minnesota, Islamic Resource Group, Masjid Al-Ihsan Islamic Center, Masjid An-Nur, Masjid At-Taqwa, and Northwest Islamic Community Center.