The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has initiated a federal civil rights investigation concerning a proposed Muslim community in northern Dallas, Texas. This site, which is near one of Texas’s largest mosques, is also being examined by state authorities following requests from Governor Greg Abbott.
Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has previously communicated his concerns to Attorney General Pam Bondy and the Civil Rights Attorney General.
The development, known as a grand ranch city in Josephine, Texas, is under investigation by the Texas Rangers as directed by Governor Abbott. He claims that such communities might pose risks of religious discrimination toward Christians, Jews, and others who are not Muslim.
On Friday, Senator Cornyn shared on social media that the DOJ had agreed to undertake a civil rights investigation into these Muslim-focused communities, following a communication from Attorney General Pam Bondy. Cornyn emphasized, “Religious discrimination and Sharia law have no place in Texas. Federal law violations must be addressed swiftly, and they are aware of that under this administration.”
According to the developer’s plans, ownership within the 400-acre Muslim-oriented community is restricted to investors and shareholders who fulfill specific criteria listed on the Epic Community website. Those interested in acquiring property must first purchase stocks ensuring one lot in this distinct city.
If someone buys a share from Community Capital Partners (CCP), which manages this planned Muslim community, they would be guaranteed a lot in Epic City, along with a 15% discount on the lot’s price. The website indicates that buying more shares would yield a greater discount, with shares available for $80,000. The community plans to comprise 1,000 standalone homes, faith-based schools, mosques, and community colleges.
Governor Abbott has repeatedly expressed his disapproval regarding the proposal. In a recent post, he remarked, “We are uncovering legal violations by cities that go beyond what most people realize. This proposed community will not become a reality.”
The American Council of Islamic Relations (CAIR), the largest Muslim civil rights advocacy organization in the U.S., along with CAIR TX, located in Dallas/Fort Worth, have pushed back against the investigation request regarding the planned Muslim community, contesting the allegations that it infringes on the civil rights of non-Muslims.
In a response letter to the Attorney General regarding the DOJ’s investigation request, CAIR stated its strong opposition to Senator Cornyn’s April 11 letter, arguing against the investigation request while advocating for urban development at the East Islamic Center and the proposed epic ranch. They condemned efforts that stifle the rights and expressions of Muslim communities.
Randy Clark is a retired U.S. Border Patrol veteran with 32 years of service, having been Chief of Law Enforcement Business overseeing operations across nine Border Patrol Bureaus in Del Rio, Texas. Follow him on X (formerly Twitter) @randyclarkbbtx.
