National Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants

National Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants is observed on February 20. This day serves as a commitment to protecting the civil rights and safety of immigrant communities who have faced targeted discrimination and racial profiling.

History of National Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants

The observance was established in 2002 by a coalition of civil rights activists, immigrant rights organizations, and community leaders. It was created in direct response to the surge in xenophobia and hate crimes following the September 11 attacks. During this period, thousands of Arab, Muslim, and South Asian immigrants were subjected to arbitrary detentions, government surveillance, and workplace discrimination based on their perceived national origin or faith. ¹

Organizers chose February 20 to align with the anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which led to the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II. By linking these historical events, activists sought to highlight a recurring pattern of state-sponsored profiling against minority groups during times of national crisis. The day gained traction through the “Blue Triangle” campaign, where supporters wore blue triangles to symbolize solidarity and to demand an end to the “Special Registration” programs and other discriminatory policies of the era.

Why is National Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants important?

This day is vital for reinforcing the principle of equal protection under the law for all residents, regardless of their immigration status. It addresses the unique intersection of Islamophobia and xenophobia that specifically affects these diverse communities. By acknowledging the specific hardships of Arab and South Asian immigrants, the holiday helps to dismantle harmful stereotypes and promotes a more accurate understanding of their varied cultural and economic contributions to American society.

The observance also fosters cross-racial and interfaith alliances. It provides a platform for different marginalized groups to unite against systemic injustice and shared forms of oppression. Highlighting these issues every February ensures that the lessons learned from the post-9/11 era are not forgotten, encouraging the public to remain vigilant against new iterations of travel bans, surveillance, and exclusionary immigration policies that threaten democratic values.

• The day commemorates the resilience of communities targeted by post-9/11 profiling.
• It emphasizes the importance of protecting civil liberties for non-citizens and citizens alike.
• This observance helps educate the public on the diversity within Muslim and Arab identities.
• Solidarity events provide a space for survivors of hate crimes to share their stories.
• The holiday promotes the repeal of discriminatory surveillance and registration programs.

How to Observe National Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants

Observing this day typically involves attending community forums, town halls, or educational workshops focused on immigrant rights. Many participants use the occasion to contact their local and federal representatives to advocate for fair immigration reform and the protection of civil rights. Supporting legal defense funds and non-profit organizations that provide direct services to Arab, Muslim, and South Asian communities is also a practical way to show commitment to the cause.

On a personal level, individuals can observe the day by consuming media created by immigrant authors and filmmakers from these regions to better understand their lived experiences. Schools and universities often host panel discussions featuring community leaders to discuss the history of migration and the impacts of modern policy on family reunification. Sharing resources and educational materials on social media can help broaden the reach of the day’s message beyond local activism circles.

• Attend a local workshop or webinar regarding current immigrant rights and legislation.
• Donate to organizations that provide legal aid to South Asian and Arab immigrants.
• Read books or watch documentaries that explore the history of the “Special Registration” era.
• Sign petitions supporting the protection of refugees and asylum seekers from targeted regions.
• Share educational posts that debunk common myths and stereotypes about Muslim communities.

National Day of Solidarity with Muslim Arab and South Asian Immigrants Dates Table

1. https://www.nevadasmithlaw.com/blog/2023/february/national-day-of-solidarity-with-muslim-arab-and-/[↩]