CAIR-NJ Condemns Ron DeSantis’ Unconstitutional and Defamatory Attack on CAIR, CAIR-Florida
(NEWARK, NJ – 12/9/2025) – The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today strongly condemns Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ unconstitutional and defamatory order baselessly smearing CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization.
READ: Governor Ron DeSantis Designates CAIR a Terrorist Organization
Following a similar political maneuver by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott late last month, Gov. DeSantis’ designation represents yet another attempt to silence dissent, chill free speech, and undermine advocacy for Palestinian human rights.
READ: Governor Greg Abbott Designates CAIR a Terrorist Organization
CAIR-NJ asserts that this move is rooted in anti-Muslim bigotry and sets a dangerous precedent for violating the First Amendment and the Constitution. Like the Texas designation, the Florida announcement is legally baseless; only the U.S. Secretary of State has the authority to designate Foreign Terrorist Organizations. Nonetheless, the step increases concern about potential federal escalation and the misuse of government power to target civil rights organizations.
CAIR and its chapters nationwide—including CAIR-Florida and CAIR-Texas—will vigorously challenge this unlawful action through all available legal avenues and continue their mission to protect civil rights, advance justice, and defend the rights of all communities.
In a statement, CAIR-New Jersey said:
“These designations aim to suppress a community’s voice against injustice, corruption, and human rights violations. They are part of a broader effort to intimidate those who speak up for marginalized communities and to delegitimize lawful advocacy that challenges government overreach.
Attempts to criminalize our work will not deter us from defending civil rights, upholding the Constitution, and standing alongside all who are fighting for justice, equality and human dignity. Our commitment to these principles is unwavering, and no political stunt will silence our community or our mission.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi, aelamroussi@cair.com, 551-208-5482
