ADC–Tampa Statement on Governor Ron DeSantis’ Reckless Declaration Targeting CAIR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 9, 2025
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Tampa, FL | The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee of Tampa (ADC–Tampa) denounces the executive order issued by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis falsely labeling the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as a “terrorist organization.” This declaration is baseless, dangerous, and fundamentally un-American. It tramples on core constitutional freedoms — free speech, religious liberty, equality, and justice for all — and weaponizes state power against an established civil rights organization that has served Florida communities for decades.

ADC–Tampa has worked closely with CAIR–Florida to advance civil and human rights for every American. Together, we have advocated for the release of an American teenager held in Israeli prison, fought Islamophobia and discrimination, defended religious freedom on college campuses, hosted elected officials at community events, and uplifted the civic engagement of Arab and Muslim American voters across our state.

This executive order is not about security. It is a political maneuver intended to appease the interests of the Israeli government, distract from Israel’s ongoing genocide, and silence advocacy efforts that expose their human rights abuses. Governor DeSantis’ actions do not put America first — they undermine the civil liberties of Americans to shield a foreign government from accountability.

This step sets a chilling precedent: if civil rights organizations can be targeted for their advocacy, every Floridian’s freedoms are at risk. We are confident that the American public will reject this blatant assault on our constitutional values.

ADC–Tampa calls on Florida communities, civil rights organizations, elected officials at every level, and all individuals committed to democracy to firmly denounce this authoritarian action. Protecting our rights is not optional — it is our responsibility as Americans. We stand in full solidarity with CAIR–Florida, and we will support their legal challenge to this unlawful and dangerous executive order.