In recent weeks, a petition has appeared on Change.org demanding that Islam be "declassified" as a religion in the United States. As an American Muslim, this is deeply troubling to me and to many in our community. This is not a simple critique of Islamic beliefs; instead, it's a veiled attempt to strip an entire faith community of its rights and religious status—rights that are fundamental to our identity and that should be equally protected under the law.

Being a Muslim in America comes with its own set of challenges. Many in our community regularly face harassment, threats, and vandalism. Our places of worship have been targets, and our prayers politicized. The idea propagated by some to "declassify" Islam as a religion only serves to inflame these tensions further. It undermines the very fabric of religious freedom that America stands for, by suggesting that Islam and its followers are somehow less deserving of protection and recognition.

Statistics from reputable sources like the FBI highlight the growing threats faced by Muslims in America. In 2020, a report released by the Council on American-Islamic Relations documented thousands of complaints ranging from discrimination to hate crimes. These aren't just numbers; they reflect real people whose lives are affected by ignorance and bigotry.

Change.org provides a platform for voices around the world to be heard, advocating for necessary social change. However, when the platform permits petitions that threaten the fundamental rights of religious communities, it becomes complicit in spreading hatred and intolerance. By allowing such petitions, Change.org is not just endorsing free speech—it's lending credibility to dangerous rhetoric that goes against the principles of religious freedom.

The goals of this petition are simple and clear: Change.org must reevaluate its guidelines and put stringent measures in place to prevent hosting petitions that attack religious communities. The platform must uphold ethical standards that align with promoting peace, understanding, and freedom for all.

Please join me in calling on Change.org to take immediate action to stop hosting campaigns that seek to undermine American Muslims or any religious group. Sign this petition to stand for religious freedom and to ensure that Change.org remains a platform that promotes justice, equality, and respect for all beliefs.