DOJ Opens Civil Rights Investigation Into Planned Muslim-Centric Development Near Dallas

The U.S. Department of Justice has opened a civil rights investigation into EPIC City, a Muslim-centric development planned near Dallas, Texas, following requests from Senator John Cornyn. The project, led by the East Plano Islamic Center's affiliate Community Capital Partners, proposes over 1,000 homes, a mosque, faith-based schools, and various community facilities on more than 400 acres near Josephine. Cornyn and other Texas Republican officials, including Governor Greg Abbott, have expressed concerns about potential discrimination and the imposition of Sharia law, alleging possible violations of the Fair Housing Act. In response, multiple Texas state agencies are also investigating the development for potential illegal activities, while Attorney General Ken Paxton has sought related records from local school officials. The Council on American-Islamic Relations condemned the investigation as Islamophobic, arguing that the project is a peaceful, inclusive community and criticizing the use of stereotypes to target Muslim-led initiatives. The DOJ has not yet commented publicly on the investigation.