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Muslim Experience in American Politics

Houston City Council

M.J. Khan was born in Pakistan and has risen through the ranks of the American political system. He currently holds the position of Council Member in the City of Houston, Texas. Mr. Khan will address issues related to the emergence of Muslims as they assume a more mainstream role in American politics and will discuss the diversity of Muslims in the US, focusing on multiethnic role models.

Guest Biographies: Council Member Khan was elected to Houston City Council District F in December 2003 on the platform of improving the quality of life one Houstonian at a time! He has a long record of community service, including his service on the Small Business Advisory Board of the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission. Council Member Khan has also served as the president of the Pakistan American Association of Greater Houston and vice-president of the Islamic Society of Greater Houston. Currently, Council Member Khan is a member of the Sharpstown Civic Association and the Alief Lions Club in the heart of District F. He has been honored by the City of Houston and numerous organizations for his leadership and service to the community.

Council Member Khan is a full time city council member who works tirelessly to address citizen complaints and concerns. He strives to make the process more efficient and accessible. Council Member Khan has focused on two primary concerns: Crime and capital improvement projects in District F.

Council Member Khan has held two district-wide leadership summits and numerous crime summits with Houston Chief of Police Harold Hurtt and his command staff to address the very high crime rates in southwest Houston, particularly in and around apartment communities. His efforts have improved HPD's relationship with residents and have increased patrols and enforcement in targeted areas. These meetings have also brought better coordination between residents and local businesses.

CIP dollars determine the amount and level of infrastructure improvements throughout the City of Houston. The CIP allocates tax dollars for street and sidewalk repairs, recreational development, traffic improvements, library and park upkeep, renovation and expansion, and infrastructure for drainage and flood control. Council Member Khan works closely with the super neighborhoods, civic clubs, and residents to identify much needed and wanted projects for which he can request an allocation of CIP funding.

Married for 29 years to Dr. Attiya Khan, a renowned cardiologist in Houston and the first female cardiology fellow at the Texas Heart Institute, Council Member Khan and his wife have one son, Faroz and daughter-in-law, Sarah.