82 Groups in US Demand Investigation of 'Muslim-Free Zones'

A coalition of civil society groups demanded Tuesday that the U.S. department of Justice (DOJ) investigate businesses that have declared “Muslim-free zones.”

In an open letter to the DOJ, 82 groups led by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), expressed concern over a growing trend of businesses refusing to serve customers perceived as Muslim.

“American businesses posting 'Muslim-Free Zone' declarations are no different than the 'Whites Only,' 'No Dogs, No Jews,' 'No Mexican' and 'Irish Need Not Apply' signs that were posted during past shameful periods of our nation’s history that we hoped were over,” the letter stated.

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The letter lamented the DOJ has “remained silent” on the issue, and called on the department to determine whether “Muslim-free zones” violate Title II of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.

“Title II specifically prohibits discrimination by places of entertainment like, in many instances, firing ranges,” the letter read.

Signatories to the letter include the American Civil Liberties Union, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and others.

"The broad range of groups calling for government action on the 'Muslim-free zone' issue clearly indicates that the U.S. Department of Justice should speak out and take concrete action to protect the constitutional rights of American Muslims," said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad.

At least one business that has declared itself a “Muslim-free zone” is currently being sued by CAIR.

The lawsuit accuses Florida Gun Supply of Inverness and its owner Andrew Hallinan, 28, of violating the federal public accommodations law and seeks an injunction to stop the discrimination, according to the complaint.