The Texas House of Representatives passed a resolution last week designating March 23 as “Pakistan Day” to honor the contributions of Pakistani Texans and commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Lahore Resolution. The resolution, authored by Rep. Suleman Lalani, recognizes the estimated 80,000 Pakistanis living in Texas and celebrates their cultural and economic impact on the state.
Passed on March 20, the resolution states that “Pakistan Day is observed annually on March 23rd by over 80,000 Pakistanis that call Texas home and by Pakistanis all over the world.” It further credits Pakistani Texans with contributing to the success of the state through their “professional work, cultural background, and values of peace and prosperity.” The resolution promotes “diversity, inclusion, education, and the appreciation of Pakistani culture.”
Five Republican representatives voted against the resolution: Andy Hopper, David Lowe, Mike Olcott, Keresa Richardson, and Joanne Shofner. Their statement in the House Journal clarified, “I support the persecuted Christians of Pakistan,” signaling concerns over religious freedom issues within Pakistan.
The resolution comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over a real estate development project associated with the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC). The development, dubbed “EPIC City,” is currently under investigation by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for potential legal violations. The proposed project includes Islamic schools, a college, mosque, clinics, and other facilities, and markets itself as a “loving, safe community” open to “non-Americans as well.”
Governor Greg Abbott has voiced strong opposition to the project, calling it a “Sharia city” and asserting that “Sharia law is not allowed in Texas.” On Monday, Abbott announced that EPIC and its partners did not obtain the necessary permits for construction. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality found the developers failed to submit required documentation.
Abbott warned that if EPIC does not cease construction within seven days, they will face legal consequences. “The State of Texas will enforce its laws and protect our communities from unlawful actions or threats posed by EPIC or its affiliates,” Abbott said.
