Texas Officials Target Proposed Muslim Community Amid Controversy

JOSEPHINE, Texas — A proposed Muslim community development, dubbed “EPIC City,” is facing significant opposition from state officials and local residents. The East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) unveiled plans for the settlement, intended to include over 1,000 homes, a mosque, green spaces, and educational facilities, on 402 acres of land north of Josephine. Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton have publicly condemned the initiative, inciting fears about the potential establishment of Sharia law in Texas.

Since the proposal was announced, residents and local officials have expressed concern, with Abbott stating, “Sharia law is not allowed in Texas” in a post on X, formerly Twitter. Abbott’s remarks followed a series of investigations he instructed various state agencies to conduct into EPIC’s activities, claiming there were serious legal issues surrounding the proposed settlement.

Mustafaa Carroll, executive director of CAIR‘s Texas chapter, has pushed back against these allegations, stating, “We’ve seen an unprecedented increase in civil rights complaints and Islamophobic attacks against Muslims. Instead of acting like true public servants, they have chosen to abuse their power by launching groundless investigations against EPIC.”

Critics of Abbott’s approach argue that it fuels a narrative of fear that is long-standing in Texas, echoing previous public discontent against Muslim communities following national events. The proposal for EPIC City comes at a time when heightened scrutiny on Muslim-American communities is prevalent, influenced by past political propositions and media portrayals.

The East Plano Islamic Center, which already serves hundreds in Plano, aims to enhance its community ties through this new development. Resident Yasir Qadhi emphasized, “EPIC City will be a model community showcasing our commitment to coexistence with our neighbors.” Current community amenities include a large mosque, schools, and various businesses serving local families.

However, not all local residents share Qadhi’s optimism. Some have expressed a deep concern over the potential changes that EPIC City could bring, fearing that the project might alter the character of their town. Susan Martinez, a Josephine resident, noted, “They want to install a loud system to call them to prayer. Our community is already dealing with water restrictions and doesn’t need the added pressure of this construction.”

As the controversy continues, Community Capital Partners, the organization tasked with developing EPIC City, has stated their commitment to adhering to the Fair Housing Act, ensuring that discrimination based on religion or other parameters is not tolerated. In a statement to reporters, the group stressed, “We believe EPIC City can be a space for everyone, not just Muslims, and we’re excited about its potential.”

Meanwhile, the backlash against the proposed project has raised concerns about civil rights violations and has prompted interfaith support from local leaders. They argue that this issue transcends religious boundaries, pointing out the rights of all communities to establish themselves without fear of discrimination or governmental obstruction.

With formal planning applications yet to be submitted and a climate of hostility growing, the future of EPIC City remains uncertain. The development reflects broader societal patterns where Muslim communities face challenges related to acceptance and legality in the American social fabric.