(HARTFORD, CT, 5/18/2026) – The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT) strongly condemns the deadly shooting at a mosque in San Diego that left five people dead, including members of the mosque community. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims, their families, and all those impacted by this horrific act of violence.
“Houses of worship should be sanctuaries of peace, prayer, and community — not places where worshippers fear for their safety,” said CAIR-CT chairman Farhan Memon. “This tragedy is another painful reminder of the dangerous rise in anti-Muslim hate and threats facing Muslim communities across the United States.”
CAIR-CT noted that Muslim institutions in Connecticut have also experienced growing concerns regarding harassment, intimidation, and security threats in recent years. In response, mosques and Muslim organizations across the state have applied for nonprofit security grants offered through state and federal programs to help protect congregants and facilities. However, the vast majority of these applications have reportedly been denied despite the heightened threat environment facing Muslim communities.
The organization also pointed to broader concerns regarding unequal attention to anti-Muslim discrimination and bias. Earlier this legislative session in Connecticut, advocates proposed the creation of a working group to examine anti-Muslim racism and bias in public schools. That proposal did not advance through the legislature. Meanwhile, legislation addressing antisemitism was prioritized and fast-tracked.
CAIR-CT emphasized that combating hatred against one community should never come at the exclusion of another.
“We unequivocally condemn antisemitism, anti-Muslim hate, racism, and all forms of bigotry,” Memon added. “Every community deserves safety, dignity, and equal protection under the law. Policymakers must ensure that efforts to combat hate are applied consistently and fairly to all communities.”
CAIR-CT is urging elected officials and law enforcement agencies to take the growing threat environment facing Muslim communities seriously and to ensure that vulnerable institutions have meaningful access to security resources and protections.
The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT) is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Farhan Memon, CAIR-CT Chairman, 203-517-6526 or fmemon@cair.com
