CAIR-NY Welcomes Removal of Anti-Muslim Flags Displayed in Westbury, Calls for Investigation and Accountability
(NEW YORK, NY, 10/29/26) – The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the swift removal of flags bearing anti-Muslim messaging in Westbury, Long Island, and calls on Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman to ensure the incident receives a thorough review.
According to News 12 Long Island, the flags featured a red cross on a black background and the phrase “Deus Vult,” meaning “God wills.” The phrase dates back to the Crusades and has been adopted by elements of the extremist right as an anti-Muslim slogan. The individual who posted the flags acknowledged wanting to make a statement and dismissed concerns about their offensiveness. The flags have since been removed.
SEE: Westbury flags removed after complaints; town cites zero-tolerance policy for hate symbols
SEE ALSO: Anti-Muslim Flags Put Up in Westbury, NY
In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq., said:
"Removing these flags does not erase the message sent to the Muslim community. When someone chooses to display symbols widely associated with hostility and intimidation, that message lingers and cannot simply be brushed aside.”
“We call on County Executive Bruce Blakeman to ensure that the Nassau County Commission on Human Rights reviews this incident, determines whether any laws or regulations were violated, and pursues appropriate penalties if warranted. Removing the flags should not be the end of the matter. Our communities deserve accountability when conduct may cross the line into unlawful discrimination or intimidation.”
She noted that CAIR previously condemned Pete Hegseth's use the Crusader slogan "Deus Vult" on a tattoo.
CAIR-NY's mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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CONTACT
Afaf Nasher, Esq. CAIR-NY Executive Director, ANasher@cair.com
CAIR-NY Communications Team, comms@ny.cair.com