Faith, Politics, and Power: Why Texas Is Targeting a Major Muslim Community Hub

I moved to Dallas in 2009 for work and, through a friend’s recommendation, discovered a local mosque in Plano. At the time, the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) was modest—just a small building that many in the community relied on for their prayers and events. That little structure, now used as the mosque’s medical clinic, was the heart of a growing, tightly knit community.

Even though I’m Shia, I felt welcome at EPIC. My friends, who were Sunni, made me feel at home, and I found myself visiting regularly. It became a central part of my life, not just for prayer but for the connections it fostered. Living just across the street, I could easily walk over for Friday prayers, classes, or even just a moment of quiet reflection. The sense of community was palpable—people greeted you warmly, and it felt like everyone was working toward something bigger than themselves.

But the EPIC of today is a far cry from what I first encountered in 2009. It’s no longer just a mosque. It’s a sprawling community hub, a safety net for North Texans of all backgrounds. With its extensive services—from free health clinics to food drives and interfaith events—EPIC has become a cornerstone of the region’s Muslim community. And with that growth has come attention—sometimes positive, but lately, far more contentious.

In Trying to Silence EPIC, Texas Might Be Undermining Itself

Over the past year, EPIC has found itself under intense scrutiny. Multiple investigations have been launched by state authorities, casting a shadow over the center’s operations and its ambitious development project, EPIC City. What began as a small community mosque is now seen as a major player, and not everyone seems comfortable with that growth.

I’ve seen the changes firsthand. The crowds, once manageable, now overflow the parking lots and spill into neighboring streets during Ramadan and other religious holidays. It’s heartwarming and challenging at the same time. EPIC’s success is undeniable, but it’s also made the mosque a target for scrutiny that seems to go beyond simple regulatory concerns.

⚖️ The Investigations: What the State Is Claiming

In March 2025, the Texas Funeral Service Commission issued a cease-and-desist letter to EPIC, claiming that the mosque was running unlicensed funeral services. This move quickly escalated to a formal inquiry by the Collin County District Attorney’s office. At the same time, Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an investigation into EPIC’s ambitious 400+ acre development project, known as EPIC City. The project, which includes housing, schools, and businesses, is now under the microscope for potential consumer protection violations.

Meanwhile, Governor Greg Abbott confirmed that over a dozen state agencies are investigating various aspects of EPIC’s operations. While no criminal charges have been filed, the sheer scale of the scrutiny has left many wondering if these actions are truly about regulatory compliance—or if something deeper is at play.

🕌 EPIC’s Reality: Service, Not Secrecy

When I reflect on my time in Dallas, I think about the first time I brought guests to EPIC for water and facilities because our apartment building had a water outage. I remember the kindness of the staff, who didn’t hesitate to help us. It was a small act of hospitality, but it showed the heart of this community.

EPIC’s services go far beyond religious gatherings. They’ve organized countless food drives and offered critical support to families in need, especially during Ramadan. They’ve provided culturally sensitive counseling and support groups—resources that many community members might not otherwise have. And, most importantly to me, they’ve stood by families in times of loss. Two years ago, when I lost a close friend, EPIC stepped in to handle his funeral without charging his widow a single penny. They cared for him as if he were family, and the entire community came together to grieve and honor him.

The point is, EPIC isn’t hiding from Texas—it’s serving it. The services they provide—charity, education, community building—align closely with the values of faith, family, and civic responsibility that so many Texans hold dear.

🏙️ EPIC City: A Vision, Not a Threat

EPIC’s vision has grown along with its community. The EPIC City development, while ambitious, is not unprecedented. Faith-based communities—Christian, Jewish, and others—have long created values-driven neighborhoods that include homes, places of worship, and educational facilities. EPIC City is just another iteration of that idea, and it’s intended to be open, not closed off.

The controversy surrounding it, however, has brought to light some troubling rhetoric. Terms like “Sharia enclave” and “no-go zone” have been thrown around by state officials, painting a picture of division and fear. In reality, EPIC City is no fortress. It’s a community, built on shared values, and open to those who respect its mission.

👁️ Retaliation in Plain Sight?

It’s hard to ignore the timing of these investigations. EPIC has become more vocal in recent years—hosting civic forums, questioning policies, and advocating for refugee rights and civil liberties. Is this scrutiny a response to genuine regulatory concerns, or is it a political statement?

To me, it feels personal. EPIC has been nothing but a positive force in the community. I’ve seen how it brings people together, how it lends a helping hand in times of crisis, and how it creates a space for spiritual and personal growth. The idea that it could be treated as a threat feels deeply unjust.

✉️ EPIC’s Invitation: Don’t Judge—Visit

Through it all, EPIC has maintained a welcoming stance. They’ve removed disputed content, cooperated with regulators, and kept their doors open. Governor Abbott, Attorney General Paxton—anyone who has questions—is invited to come see for themselves.

And what better time to visit than now, as one of the biggest Muslim holidays, Eid ul-Fitr, approaches? This weekend—either Saturday or Sunday, depending on the moon sighting—the mosque will be alive with prayer, celebration, and community. It would be a perfect opportunity for them to experience the warmth and hospitality that EPIC offers firsthand.

🧭 Final Word: The Stakes Are Bigger Than EPIC

At its core, this story isn’t just about EPIC. It’s about what kind of state Texas wants to be. Is it a place where communities can thrive without fear of discrimination? Where diversity is seen as strength, not a threat?

From the small mosque I first encountered in 2009 to the bustling center it is today, EPIC has proven it’s more than capable of rising to any challenge. It’s not just a mosque. It’s not just a community. It’s a reflection of the very best Texas has to offer—resilience, service, and a commitment to helping those in need.

This weekend’s Eid festivities could also be an opportunity for local representatives, to step in and help facilitate meaningful conversations. It’s not just about ending the current wave of scrutiny, but about building bridges and fostering understanding.

Perhaps this Eid can bring more than just celebrations; perhaps it can bring the gift of peace and unity. That would be a truly welcome holiday blessing.