Islamophobic Attack at Walnut Creek Park Prompts Urgent Calls for Action

Austin Muslim leaders are urging state officials to condemn harassment following an incident at Walnut Creek Park, according to the Austin American-Statesman. The episode involved two men dressed as medieval Christian crusaders shouting Islamophobic insults at a group attending a fellowship breakfast.

The Austin chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Austin) condemned the situation, and linked the confrontation to recent statements and actions by Gov. Greg Abbott, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, and Attorney General Ken Paxton, urging them to “stop fomenting anti-Muslim hate across the state.”

Imam Muzzammil Ahmad, who attended the breakfast, said, “When Muslim families show up for this monthly potluck with their children right after morning prayers, they do so in good faith, seeking joy, fresh air, and connection to one another and God’s nature. It was deeply troubling that those hateful individuals chose to intimidate and threaten us in a public place that is meant for children to play around safely.”

CAIR-Austin said Austin police responded but told the group the men’s actions were protected under the First Amendment. The organization has asked local authorities to investigate potential violations of laws or park rules.

The incident follows Abbott’s Nov. 18 proclamation labeling CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorist organizations, barring land purchases and authorizing the state to seek their dissolution. 

CAIR’s Dallas-Fort Worth and Austin chapters sued, claiming the proclamation violates the First Amendment. CAIR-Austin Operations Manager Shaimaa Zayan said such rhetoric contributes to hostility toward Muslim communities. 

“Divisive, hateful and threatening rhetoric undermines the safety and sense of belonging of all Texans,” Zayan said.