Protesters to Muslim Day are organizing through social media.
On Sunday, the Facebook group titled Protesting Muslim Day at the Oklahoma State Capitol was created. Overpasses for America Oklahoma is listed as the host and as of Wednesday, 69 people have confirmed they will attend the protest to the event on Feb. 27.
Rep. Mike Shelton has been asked to speak at the event. Organizers said the purpose of the event is to better acquaint Muslims with their lawmakers and Capitol operations.
“I’ve been getting several calls disappointed that I’m taking part,” Shelton said.
Shelton said he is happy to participate anyway.
“I think it is my civic duty to ensure that I educate people on every aspect of public policy,” Shelton said.
While Rep. John Bennett said he supports Muslims’ right under the First Amendment to gather at the Capitol he does not support the group that is organizing the event.
The Oklahoma chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations is the organizer and this is the first year the event is being held.
Bennett said one major reason he does not support the group is because members previously tried to prevent lawmakers from banning Sharia Law in the state.
“I’m very suspect in their motives and what they’re doing,” Bennett said.
He also said the United Arab Emirates listed CAIR as a terrorist organization.
KOCO reached out to Gov. Mary Fallin’s office about the event. We were told no comment would be issued at this time.
Due to the backlash the event has had on social media, there will be extra security at the event. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27.