Having lived on Long Island for nearly three decades and volunteered for various initiatives, I recently had the privilege of advising Muslim candidates running for school and library boards across Long Island.
These candidates were nothing short of exceptional—highly talented, professional, and deeply committed to giving back to their communities. One candidate was even a valedictorian of the very school district they sought to serve.
Their passion and dedication inspired me to support their campaigns. However, I was deeply shocked to learn that five out of the seven candidates faced targeted attacks and harassment simply because of their faith.
Islamophobia reared its ugly head in our own neighborhoods, with candidates receiving hate messages and, in one disturbing instance, a candidate’s fence was ripped out just two days before the May 21 elections. Remarkably, she still won her seat.
The recent attack on the Melville Islamic Center, coupled with the anti-Muslim bigotry seen during the school board elections, raises an immediate concern that more needs to be done on Long Island.
Islamophobia is not just an isolated issue but a pervasive problem that threatens the very fabric of our society. When qualified and dedicated individuals are targeted for their faith, it undermines our community values and the principles of equality and justice that we strive to uphold.
It creates a climate of fear and division, discouraging others from stepping forward to serve and contribute to the common good.
Despite the fact that 100,000 Muslims call Long Island their home, there isn’t a single Muslim elected to serve in the county Legislature.
The bias against Muslim candidates makes it exceedingly difficult for them to run for office. This blatant bigotry is unacceptable and highlights the systemic barriers that prevent equal representation in our local government.
The impact of Islamophobia extends beyond the immediate victims. It fosters an environment of intolerance and ignorance, eroding trust and cohesion within our communities.
It teaches our children the wrong lessons about diversity and respect, perpetuating cycles of prejudice and discrimination. If left unchecked, such hatred can escalate into more severe forms of violence and exclusion, threatening the peace and stability of our society.
We must not only condemn all forms of hate but actively confront and dismantle them whenever and wherever they appear.
Our elected officials must do more to protect and support Muslims who are being repeatedly targeted. They must implement policies and initiatives that promote inclusivity and safeguard the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith.
As members of this community, we have a responsibility to stand up against Islamophobia and all forms of discrimination. We must speak out, educate others, and foster a culture of acceptance and mutual respect. By doing so, we can ensure that our neighborhoods remain safe, welcoming, and vibrant places for everyone.
We cannot allow fear and prejudice to undermine the spirit of volunteerism and community service. It’s time for all of us to stand up, speak out, and demand better from our leaders and from ourselves.
Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive Long Island where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Ali Z. Mohammed
Woodbury
The writer is a long term resident of Long Island and served as a trustee of Long Island Power Authority
