Texas is a diverse state where people of all faiths should have the freedom to build communities without fear of discrimination. Yet the East Plano Islamic Center, a Muslim nonprofit seeking to develop a residential community called The Meadow, is now facing a highly aggressive lawsuit from Attorney General Ken Paxton after months of political scrutiny and public hostility.

The planned development includes homes, a mosque, a school, and local shops. It is a peaceful project meant to serve families. But instead of treating it like any other community development, Paxton launched overlapping investigations, issued inflammatory public statements, and has now sued the Center and its partners for alleged securities violations. His rhetoric goes far beyond the claims in the lawsuit, accusing project leaders of plotting to “destroy” land and “line their own pockets,” echoing months of Islamophobic attacks from commentators.

This is not equal enforcement. This is targeted action against a Muslim community project that has already been subjected to harassment and misinformation campaigns. Even the U.S. Department of Justice previously reviewed concerns about the development and closed its inquiry after confirming compliance with federal fair housing laws.

Texas must not allow state power to be used in ways that chill the rights of religious minorities or intimidate communities seeking to build lawful housing. Political disagreements are never an excuse to weaponize investigations or lawsuits against a specific faith group.

This petition calls on the Texas Legislature, federal oversight officials, and the public to demand fair treatment for the East Plano Islamic Center. We ask for transparency in how this case is handled, assurance that laws are applied consistently, and protection against using state authority to target projects simply because they are led by a Muslim organization.

Texans value religious freedom and the right to build communities where families can live, learn, and worship. The Meadow deserves the same fairness and respect that any other development would receive.

Sign this petition if you believe Muslim communities deserve equal treatment under the law, free from political targeting and discrimination.

Photo: Politico