Dearborn sued over alleged religious favoritism in holiday spending

A Michigan woman has filed a lawsuit against the city of Dearborn and Mayor Abdullah Hammoud, alleging that local officials favor Islamic traditions over Christian and Jewish holidays. The lawsuit, filed by attorneys from the American Freedom Law Center, claims the city violated the Establishment Clause by using discretionary spending to promote Islam as the predominant religion in the area.

Specifically, the plaintiff, Margot Cleveland, cited the city’s expenditure of approximately $7,000 on Ramadan-related signage, apparel, and displays. Cleveland requested similar funding for Christian and Jewish holidays, such as Easter and Passover, but stated her requests were declined. The suit further alleges that Hammoud and other officials engaged in retaliation against Cleveland following her initial inquiries.