The Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA) has released its 2024 Civil Rights Report, uncovering an alarming rise in Islamophobic incidents across the state. The report, titled “Demanding Justice: Nearing a Decade of Legal Advocacy,” offers a detailed analysis of 209 civil rights complaints received by the organization over the past year.
According to the report, there has been a 65% increase in hate-related cases compared to 2023—making it the highest ever recorded in CAIR-MA’s 10-year history. Despite this troubling surge, not a single incident has been officially classified as a hate crime by law enforcement agencies.
Disturbing Trends and Statistics
28 hate-driven incidents were logged, ranging from verbal threats to violent physical attacks. Victims reported being stalked, spat on, threatened, and having their property vandalized.
The severity of violence reported this year was unprecedented, with some cases resulting in hospitalizations and long-term trauma.
Public schools have become a focal point of concern. Incidents included a student who was poisoned and another requiring surgery due to injuries inflicted by peers. There were also multiple cases of educator misconduct and administrative neglect.
- Advertisement -Muslim women wearing hijab were particularly targeted, facing disproportionate levels of harassment and physical assaults in both public and professional environments.
“This report paints a harrowing picture of rising Islamophobia in Massachusetts,” said Tahirah Amatul-Wadud, Esq., Executive Director of CAIR-MA. “When Muslim families are being targeted in schools, workplaces, and public spaces—and law enforcement fails to act—it puts every one of us at risk.”
Systemic Failures in Law Enforcement
Legal Director Barbara J. Dougan expressed concern over the lack of meaningful police investigations:
“Imagine being physically attacked and traumatized, only for the authorities to dismiss the motive behind it. We’re seeing too many cases where crucial evidence is being ignored or withheld. Massachusetts deserves impartial policing that protects all communities equally—including Muslims.”
Upcoming Legislative Briefing
To address these ongoing issues, CAIR-MA will host a legislative briefing on June 10, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Massachusetts State House. The organization will highlight case stories from the report and advocate for stronger policies to combat hate crimes, school bullying, and religious discrimination.
This state-level report follows the broader CAIR National 2025 Civil Rights Report, titled “Unconstitutional Crackdowns.” Released in March, it documented 8,658 civil rights complaints nationwide—the highest since CAIR began reporting in 1996. Viewpoint discrimination, particularly against individuals voicing opposition to global injustices, was a significant factor in many of the cases.
CAIR’s Continued Mission
CAIR remains committed to defending civil rights, advancing public understanding of Islam, promoting justice, and empowering American Muslims to thrive in all areas of civic life.