(TAMPA, FL, April 23, 2025) — The Florida chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Florida), the state’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed a lawsuit filed by Muslim Legal against the town of Southwest Ranches, Florida, for allegedly violating the First Amendment rights of individuals who peacefully protested the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza.

The lawsuit alleges that town officials unlawfully suppressed constitutionally protected speech and assembly, targeting individuals who were peacefully exercising their right to protest. Demonstrators advocating for justice and human rights reportedly faced undue restrictions, interference and retaliation — setting a dangerous precedent that undermines the fundamental freedoms enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. Muslim Legal is a law firm led by Tampa-area civil rights attorney Hassan Shibly.

CAIR-Florida Lead Counsel Omar Saleh welcomed the lawsuit and stated:

“This lawsuit is a critical step toward ensuring that our constitutional rights are upheld, no matter the political message. Peaceful protesters must never be silenced by local authorities simply for speaking out against war and injustice.”

CAIR-Florida Calls for Action and Community Support

CAIR-Florida urges activists, legal advocates and community members to stand in solidarity against these civil liberties violations and attend all related legal proceedings.

CAIR-Florida’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice and empower American Muslims.

La misión de CAIR-Florida es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.

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CONTACT: Wilfredo A. Ruiz, CAIR-Florida Communications Director, Email: [email protected]