New Jersey lawmakers are considering naming January “Muslim Heritage Month” in New Jersey.

Lawmakers have introduced a bill to make it so. The bill is backed by state Sen. Joe Pennacchio.

Lawmakers say the goal is to increase awareness and appreciation of Muslim American communities in New Jersey.

The Council of American-Islamic Relations testified on behalf of the new legislation.

"If the state of New Jersey truly takes great pride in the religious and cultural diversity of its residents, it is critical to pass Senate Joint Resolution, SJR-105, which would recognize our large community in the state,” says Madina Ouedraogo, government affairs manager for CAIR-NJ.

CAIR says it hopes the new bill can bring more awareness to the rise of anti-Muslim incidents in New Jersey.