Governor Proclaims Our Three Winners Day 2024

WHEREAS, Our Three Winners refers to Deah Barakat, Yusor Abu-Salha, and Razan Abu-Salha, who were killed in their Chapel Hill home in a hate crime on February 10, 2015, sparking international outrage; and

WHEREAS, Our Three Winners left behind a legacy of community service that has lived on past their deaths and has had a significant impact on the local community; and

WHEREAS, the Our Three Winners Foundation was established in their name to promote equity and reduce prejudice towards Muslims and other marginalized communities in America through advocacy, service, and evidence-based programming; and

WHEREAS, The Light House Project was established to empower Muslim Americans in the Triangle through community and faith, with the aim of creating a safe space and welcoming environment that nurtures personal, spiritual, and social growth; and

WHEREAS, the DYOR clinic was established to provide free dental care to refugee and low income households in Wake County; in honor of Deah and Yusor’s legacy, the UNC Adams School of Dentistry student body dedicated a day to volunteer activities in the greater Triangle area, providing over 1000 hours of service annually; and

WHEREAS, the Chapel Hill Town Council proclaimed February 10, 2018, as Our Three Winners Day; in 2022, Governor Cooper participated in DEAH Day and proclaimed October 4, 2023, as DEAH Day; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina has become a focal point for important discussions about Islam in America due to the tragic loss of Our Three Winners; their murder sparked nationwide conversations about hate crimes and Islamophobia, leading to increased efforts to promote understanding and acceptance of the state’s Muslim population; and

WHEREAS, with immense pride and honor, the State of North Carolina recognizes the life and legacy of Our Three Winners on the 9th anniversary of their murder;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim February 10, 2024, as “OUR THREE WINNERS DAY” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.