North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein (D) issued an official proclamation recognizing Ramadan as a month of observance for the state’s Muslim community, encouraging residents and state agencies to honor the Islamic holy month.
“Ramadan is a time of reflection, fasting, and community for millions of North Carolinians. We celebrate the contributions of our Muslim neighbors and honor their traditions,” Stein said in a statement on the state’s official website.
The proclamation has drawn sharp criticism from conservative activists and lawmakers, who argue that it blurs the lines between cultural recognition and state endorsement of religious practices.
Social media responses have been particularly vocal, with some questioning the necessity of a state-led endorsement and citing broader cultural and legal concerns.
“This is absolutely insane,” wrote commentator Matt Van Swol, while investigative journalist Sloan Rachmuth declared, “I owe ZERO loyalty to Islam. I will NEVER honor Ramadan—NEVER. I will never bow to Islam in North Carolina.”
Others warned that such proclamations reflect broader cultural encroachments, comparing the U.S. situation to the United Kingdom.
“How do North Carolina residents feel now that they are required to observe and worship the Islamic holiday Ramadan? Islam is conquering America as it has the UK,” wrote one X user.
Conservative concerns are further amplified by recent jihadist-inspired incidents on U.S. soil, including attempted bombings and shootings targeting public spaces, which some say heighten worries about federal government oversight.
In response, Republican lawmakers have formed and expanded the Sharia-Free America Caucus, which now counts more than 50 members, including Reps. Keith Self (TX). Chip Roy (TX), Randy Fine (FL), and Andy Ogles (TN), as well as Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville.
Caucus members warn that alternative legal frameworks, such as Sharia, could conflict with constitutional law if allowed influence in courts, schools, or local governance.
This concern echoes broader criticism from other observers, who cite worries about signaling official recognition of religious practices at the state level, particularly amid ongoing debates over religious freedom, immigration, and cultural integration.
Brother Rachid, an activist who emigrated from a country where Ramadan is legally enforced, remarked, “I came to America for freedom. Now a governor is commending everyone to observe it. That’s a troubling direction.”
Behavioral scientist Gad Saad added, “North Carolina is Islamic land. I thought that the U.S. had better inoculation against parasitic suicidal empathy. I was too optimistic apparently.”
Supporters of the proclamation emphasize that it is purely ceremonial and does not compel Americans to participate in religious observances.
They note that recognition of cultural and religious holidays has precedent in the U.S., citing observances like Diwali or Jewish American Heritage Month.
Governor Stein’s proclamation comes amid heightened sensitivity among conservative lawmakers regarding national security, cultural assimilation, and the role of religion in public life.
While some see recognition of Ramadan as inclusive, others interpret it as a step toward normalizing religious influence in state governance, prompting broader debate across the political spectrum.
As national security and cultural debates intensify, the proclamation and subsequent conservative backlash highlight the ongoing tension between inclusivity and perceived threats to constitutional norms, ensuring that this issue remains a focal point in North Carolina and national politics throughout 2026.
