A landmark moment in Maryland’s legislative history is set to unfold this February as the state prepares to formally introduce its first-ever Legislative Muslim Caucus during the 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day.
The announcement was made by the Maryland chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) in collaboration with State Delegate Sean Stinnett, confirming that the caucus will officially launch on February 16, 2026, at the Maryland State House in Annapolis.
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This development marks a historic first within the Maryland General Assembly, signaling increased faith-based representation and broader civic inclusion in state governance.
Event Details
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Event: 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day & Official Launch of the Maryland Muslim Caucus
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Date: Monday, February 16, 2026
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Location: Maryland State House, Annapolis
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Registration: bit.ly/feb16-lobbyday
Note: Attendance is limited, and registration is nearing capacity.
Leadership and Vision
State Delegate Sean A. Stinnett, who played a leading role in establishing the caucus, expressed appreciation for the institutional support that made the initiative possible.
“I am deeply grateful to Speaker Pena-Melnyk for approving and supporting the creation of the first Maryland Muslim Caucus,” Stinnett said. “This is a critical moment to engage in meaningful dialogue—within our communities and across the state—about unity, understanding, and shared progress. The caucus will be centered on peace and collective purpose.”
A Milestone for Civic Representation
The formation of the Maryland Muslim Caucus represents a significant step forward in democratic participation, offering a structured legislative platform to address concerns affecting Muslim communities across the state.
The caucus is expected to focus on policy areas including civil rights, public safety, education, economic opportunity, social justice, and religious freedom, while working collaboratively with fellow legislators and community stakeholders.
CAIR–Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry described the launch as both symbolic and substantive.
“This is a powerful and affirming milestone for Muslim residents of Maryland,” Chaudry said. “It reflects the growing civic engagement of our communities and reinforces the idea that people of all faiths have a rightful place in the democratic process.”
About Maryland Muslim Lobby Day
Maryland Muslim Lobby Day is an annual statewide advocacy initiative that brings together community members, faith leaders, advocates, and elected officials to engage directly with lawmakers. The event empowers participants to discuss policy priorities grounded in justice, dignity, and equal protection under the law.
The 2026 program will include constituent meetings with legislators, as well as a public session formally recognizing the launch of the Legislative Muslim Caucus as a historic legislative achievement.
About CAIR
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is a leading Muslim civil rights organization dedicated to protecting civil liberties, enhancing understanding of Islam, promoting justice, and empowering American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
