Nevada’s legislative landscape is shifting as lawmakers deliberate a proposal to honor the Muslim American community. This initiative, set within one of the nation’s most diverse states, seeks to establish July as Muslim American Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions this community has made to the state.
Assembly Bill 278, introduced by Assemblymember Britney Miller and supported by Assemblymember Hanadi Nadeem, aims to prompt annual proclamations from the governor celebrating Muslim Americans in Nevada. The bill has successfully passed the Assembly and is currently under Senate consideration, despite opposition from fourteen lawmakers.
Miller was inspired to sponsor the bill following a request from Muslim community leaders. She mentioned, “Last year, Clark County declared July as Muslim American Heritage Month. But obviously we wanted to make it statewide.” Although she is Arab American and not Muslim, Miller emphasized that the bill is a reflection of Nevada’s dynamic cultural identity.
Similar initiatives have been embraced in states like Michigan, New Jersey, Utah, Connecticut, and Illinois, while a federal proposal to recognize January as Muslim American Heritage Month is also in progress. With over 3 million Muslim Americans nationwide, Miller underscores the importance of such observances for both celebration and education. “We have everyone—every different type of person. Race, religion, color, creed, nationality, immigrant status—from around the world,” she said. “Muslims are one of the communities where there’s still a lot of ignorance toward their faith, bigotry, hatred. This is to bring awareness and education about who Muslims actually are.”
Despite the bill’s intention to foster inclusion, it has faced criticism. During a March 20 hearing, some opponents voiced concerns that it could steer the nation toward becoming “a Muslim nation.” Lorena Biassotti, a Clark County School Board trustee, highlighted violent acts by extremist groups such as ISIS and Hamas as part of her opposition.
Miller remains optimistic about the bill’s potential benefits, particularly for younger generations. As a seventh-grade teacher, she noted the positive impact on students during Ramadan. “ When it comes time for Ramadan, people don’t always understand that those kids are just as excited,” she said. “Just to see their faces light up and get so excited. They’ve been seen, they’ve been identified.”
Dr. Cihangir Arslan, a cybersecurity professional and Board of Trustees member for the Northern Nevada Muslim Community, supports the bill as a step toward acknowledgment and inclusion. “It shows that our contributions are valued and that we’re truly part of Nevada’s story,” Arslan said. “It’s not just about celebration—it’s about being seen, understood, and respected.” He envisions local events such as traditional food festivals, open mosque days, and educational talks as avenues for cultural exchange.
While AB278 does not entail new funding or programs, it encourages educational and community organizations to host events honoring the month. Miller hopes these efforts will “highlight a wonderful community” and counteract negative stereotypes. “We combat racism with education. And then proximity,” she said. “When we’re able to share and ask questions—that’s when we really start to accept others.”
