CHICAGO: The number of Arab and Muslim Americans seeking office in the state of Illinois has almost quadrupled from previous years’ elections, and some activists believe it is a response to the Gaza war, as well as rising anti-Arab racism and Islamophobia.
In 2021, nine candidates filed for local elections in three counties — Cook, DuPage and Will — where the Arab and Muslim populations are concentrated.
This year, however, 34 Arab and Muslim candidates filed for local offices in the April 1 elections.
Ahmad Sows, president of the Arab American Democracy Coalition — which advocates for voter registration and engagement in the election process — said Gaza has been one of the key factors pushing more Arabs and Muslims into public engagement, including running for local public office.
“The Arab-American community has experienced a profound sense of disillusionment as they witness a lack of genuine representation among politicians for their concerns. The rise in hate crimes against Arabs is deeply troubling, and it feels disheartening to see tax dollars being used to support actions that many perceive as unjust,” he told Arab News.
“When community concerns are raised, responses from some politicians often emphasize unwavering support for Israel, leaving constituents feeling sidelined and unheard. This situation has left many Arab Americans wanting their voices to be truly acknowledged.
“They believe that running for office could be a vital step toward ensuring their community’s perspectives and needs are represented in the political landscape.”
Illinois holds its local elections before many other US states. Sows said the increased engagement in Illinois is indicative of what can be expected in other states where Arab and Muslim Americans have large voter populations, such as California, New York and New Jersey.
There are an estimated 450,000 Arab Americans in Illinois, about 10 percent of the national population living around the city of Chicago. Illinois has the fifth-largest Arab and Muslim population among US states.
Mohammed Jaber, a local schoolteacher elected to serve on the District 230 board — which has three high schools with significant Arab and Muslim populations — told Arab News that local elections are often taken for granted by all voters.
But he stressed that local elections offer Arabs and Muslims the best opportunity to directly engage American public policy.
“Our community understands that if you want to influence the nation’s national and international policies, such as in Palestine and Lebanon, you have to first influence public attitudes on the local level where you live,” said Jaber, the first Arab and Muslim to serve on the District 230 high school board representing Palos, Orland Park and Tinley Park.
“The most effective way to do that is to run for and win election to local offices, from schools to villages, libraries and park boards.
“That’s where you can help change the false perceptions that the public has about Arabs and Muslims.”
Four efforts to elect an Arab or Muslim to the District 230 school board failed, in 1992, 2002, 2004 and 2008.
However, Jaber said the district became more accepting as the community became more engaged and involved.
Today, the Arab and Muslim student population of District 230’s three high schools has tripled, to about 25 percent of the nearly 7,700 students, he added.
However, the board last week voted against Jaber’s proposal to shift student finals in May 2026 to avoid conflicting with Eid. “We have to keep fighting to make our voices heard,” he said.
Tasneem Amine, a candidate who hopes to join Jaber on District 230 as a trustee, said her parents encouraged her to help people and pursue a career in law or public diplomacy.
“I always liked to speak up whenever I saw something wrong. I was truly passionate about helping others. I was never a bystander,” she told Arab News.
“I’ve attended several board meetings before, and although the current District 230 board has been fantastic, I truly believe that our community would benefit from having a young voice on the board who offers a fresh perspective.”
Amine, who graduated from the District 230 school system, added: “We need more Arab leaders to represent our community. Muslim constituents make up a large percentage of District 230, and therefore we need more representation as there’s power in numbers.
“Of course, however, I’m committed to representing all constituents regardless of background, because every voice matters.”
She said: “It’s time we have seats at the table, not just a single seat. This is the minimum we owe to a community that has worked hard and continues to contribute in meaningful ways.”
Lena Matariyeh, who is running for a trustee position on the influential Orland Township board — which represents large and growing Arab and Muslim populations — said the community must be more active, vocal and engaged.
“I believe in strong, community-focused leadership that prioritizes the well-being of all residents,” she told Arab News.
“Local government plays a vital role in providing essential services, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring that every voice is heard.
“I want to contribute to a township that supports families, businesses and individuals through practical, non-partisan solutions.”
She added: “I think many people, regardless of background, are feeling more compelled to step up and serve.
“Civic engagement is growing across the board, and people want to be part of the decision-making process that shapes their communities. Representation is important, but so is the desire to bring positive change.”
Suzan Atallah, who is running for a seat on the District 118 school board serving Palos, said she wants to make the schools and community better for all families and children.
“My family and I chose to live in District 118 because of the wonderful reputation of the schools. What motivated me to run are my very own kids in 118, coupled with my strong background in education as a teacher at Stagg High School for over 14 years,” she told Arab News.
“I believe people of different backgrounds should be afforded the opportunity to have a seat at the table, as reflection in the demographic is crucial in understanding student and taxpayer needs.”
While it is encouraging to see more Arabs and Muslims run for elected offices, Sows stressed that many non-Arab and non-Muslim elected officials have “stood by the community to support their needs and fight for their rights,” and should not be forgotten.
