Muslim Civic Coalition Joins Nearly 300 Advocates at ICHR “Stand Up for Palestine” Rally in Springfield
May 21, 2026 — Springfield, IL - Yesterday, the Muslim Civic Coalition joined the Illinois Coalition for Human Rights (ICHR) and hundreds of advocates at the Illinois State Capitol for the “Stand Up for Palestine – End the Censorship” rally and advocacy day.
As a member organization of ICHR, we stood together to demand the immediate repeal of Illinois’ anti-BDS law. While a historic hearing was held today, the bill was not voted on in the House committee. The fight to repeal this unjust law is far from over and must continue vigorously in the Illinois legislature.
Why This Action Mattered
This powerful demonstration of people power brought together Illinoisans from across the state to insist that every voice must be treated equally under the law. In the face of escalating attacks on free speech, especially on college campuses, and the weaponization of immigration enforcement through trumped-up charges to silence Palestinian advocates, repealing the anti-BDS law remains urgent.
Passed in 2015 and still on the books despite repeated repeal efforts, the anti-BDS law bars public pension funds from divesting from companies complicit in the occupation. It has already cost Illinois pension systems an estimated $149 million in lost returns. More critically, it codifies political supremacy by punishing peaceful advocacy while claiming to protect free speech.
We cannot claim Illinois is a model for justice and neutrality while this law remains in force.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
The Muslim Civic Coalition will continue working alongside ICHR and our partners in Springfield until this unjust law is repealed. We will keep fighting until free speech, human rights, and the right to protest are held to a high and equal standard for all communities across Illinois.
Take Action Now
Add your voice and sign the letter to Illinois legislators demanding repeal of the anti-BDS law. Sign the Petition / Send Letter to Legislators
Every signature and every call to your legislator helps move this issue forward. Join the movement for free speech, human rights, and justice.
Follow the Muslim Civic Coalition for updates on our continued advocacy in Springfield and across Illinois.