California Muslims gained a moment of hope and belonging after midterm election

Guest Commentary written by

Tahra Goraya

Tahra Goraya is the founder of Goraya Consulting and a member of the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs. She is former president and CEO of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership.

Some moments in our nation’s history make an election mean far more than who wins or loses. The 2026 midterm elections are one of them. 

For Muslims in California, this moment represents an opportunity to reclaim hope, reaffirm our place in the American story and recognize that fear, division and hatred do not have to define our country’s future.

For too long, Muslim Americans have lived in an environment in which our faith, patriotism and belonging have been questioned. We have watched our identity used as a political talking point and experienced the consequences of prejudice and bigotry. 

Yet we have continued to show up as neighbors, educators, entrepreneurs, public servants, parents and engaged citizens.

American Muslims are also essential contributors to our nation’s economic strength. We own and operate businesses, create jobs, invest in communities, serve in high-demand professions and contribute to industries ranging from healthcare and technology to education, manufacturing and hospitality. 

We are workers, innovators, consumers and employers. Our contributions help build local economies, strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunity. 

Our belonging should never be measured by our economic contributions alone, but those contributions make clear what should already be understood: American Muslims are part of the fabric of this country, in every sense.

This election reminds us that democracy is strongest when people participate and when  representation reflects the nation’s diversity. 

Voters made clear that the issues shaping everyday life — including affordability, housing, healthcare, education and the economy — matter. Manufactured fear and attacks on entire communities are no substitute for leadership that addresses people’s real concerns.

The historic victories matter, too. Abdul El-Sayed’s election in Michigan makes him the first Muslim American elected to the United States Senate. Xavier Becerra’s election as California’s next governor adds another chapter to our state’s diverse political history.

These milestones matter not because elected officials should represent only one community, but because our institutions are stronger when people from every background have a seat at the table.

For Muslim children, representation is about belonging and possibility. As a mother of two preteen daughters, I want them to see that they can be unapologetically Muslim and proudly American. They can lead, serve, shape policy, build businesses and help define this country’s future. They do not have to wait for permission to belong. They belong right now.

Hate has not prevailed. 

That does not mean Islamophobia or discrimination has disappeared, or that the work of protecting civil rights is finished. It means that fear did not silence participation, community or hope. We must keep holding leaders accountable, defend religious freedom, challenge discrimination and build relationships across faiths and cultures.

I am excited about what this moment represents, not only for Muslims in California, but for America. I am hopeful about a generation willing to participate, lead and demand better. 

American Muslims are not standing outside the American story waiting to be included. We are helping build its economy, strengthen its communities and write its future. That is something worth celebrating.