Statement of Condemnation on the attack on Maryam Khan

Islamic Circle of North America – ICNA strongly condemns the recent attack on State Representative Maryam Khan in Connecticut just after the Eid-ul Adha prayer, Wednesday June 28^th, 2023. Maryam Khan, was elected in a special election in 2022 to represent the state’s 5th District, becoming the first Muslim member and the first Muslim woman to the Connecticut House. For such a great achievement, Ms. Khan received a special award by Islamic Circle of North America- ICNA at its Annual National Convention.

Maryam Khan has dedicated her time and efforts towards serving and working for the betterment of her community. As such, it is deeply distressing to witness an elected representative being subjected to harm simply for her religious beliefs and practices.

This act of violence is not only a direct assault on Ms. Khan as an elected official, but also an attack on religious freedom and the principles of tolerance and coexistence that we cherish as a society. The attack on her, as a Muslim woman and especially after a prayer service, is deeply distressing and goes against the values of respect, understanding, and religious freedom that we hold dear as Americans. Sadly enough, her children had to witness this brutal attack.

There is need for more security at such large gatherings and ICNA demands that a thorough investigation into this heinous crime be carried out. We expect nothing less than the full force of the law and maximum penalty be handed down to her attacker.

Islamic Circle of North America -ICNA extends its thoughts, prayers, and solidarity to Lawmaker Maryam Khan and her family during this challenging period. May Allah SWT grant her immense rewards for her ordeals and bless her with a speedy and complete recovery.