Legislation sponsored by Senator Joe Pennacchio that would designate January of each year as Muslim Heritage Month was signed into law today by Governor Murphy.

Legislation sponsored by Sen. Joe Pennacchio that would designate January of each year as Muslim Heritage Month was signed into law today by Gov. Murphy. (©iStock)

“I am extremely pleased that this was signed into law today and I would like to thank Senator Stack for joining me in sponsoring this legislation,” said Pennacchio (R-26). “There are nearly 300,000 Muslim Americans in New Jersey, including numerous current and former elected officials dedicated to public service in their communities. It is long past time to recognize our Muslim brothers and sisters for their contributions to the diverse fabric of New Jersey.”

With the joint resolution, SJR-105, Pennacchio seeks to elevate awareness and appreciation of the Muslim American community and their accomplishments in New Jersey.

The 3.45 million Muslims in the United States represent diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, including immigrants and native-born Americans, and comprise approximately 1.1% of the nation’s population.

Muslims are the world’s second largest religious group, with 1.9 billion adherents representing approximately 25 percent of the world’s population. Significant Muslim achievements helped shape our world, including notable milestones in philosophy, mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, medicine, architecture, music, literature, and the arts.