A proposed development project by a local Muslim community in Texas — envisioning a neighborhood with a mosque and school at its center “that brings Islam to the forefront” — has drawn fervent condemnation by the US state’s governor, Greg Abbott, and fears of “Shariah law,” which the project’s leaders say are unfounded.

The spat between the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) community, a longtime religious and charity presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and the state’s Republican leadership, was detailed in a New York Times report on Sunday.

A promotional video linked to in the article announces: “EPIC City is more than a neighborhood. It’s a way of life, a meticulously designed community that brings Islam to the forefront.”

The video details the single-family homes, apartment blocks, parks, sports fields and commercial centers planned for the development, all against the soundtrack of traditional Muslim nasheed, a form of a capella music that dwells on religious themes.

“Our community is designed to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity for all residents, regardless of their background,” the voiceover notes.

“We are committed to creating a welcoming........

© The Times of Israel