05/26/2026 MASHPEE INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY COMMITTEE Minutes

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IMP. IMBO d"fr,,{ynr,fw VhP. w Mashpee lncCusion and'Diversity Committee 16 Great Neck RoadNorth Mashyee, M-A 0264.9 Mohamed Zefzaf requested his proposal to the Cemetery Commission be included in the record for reference. Document : Cemetery Proposal Proposal for Designating a Muslim Burial Section in Mashpee Town Cemetery Executive Summary This proposal recommends allocating a small, clearly defined section within the existing Mashpee Town Cemetery to accommodate Islamic burial practices. It addresses a growing community need, aligns with national precedents, and reinforces Mashpee's commitment to inclusion and religious accommodation. Motion This motion respectfully requests that the Town of Mashpee designate a small, clearly defined section within the municipal cemetery for the burial of Muslim residents, in accordance with Islamic burial traditions. This initiative aligns with practices already adopted in many communities across the United States and reflects Mashpee's ongoing commitment to inclusion, dignity, and respect for the cultural and religious diversity of its residents. Background and Need Mashpee is home to a small but growing Muslim population, many of whom have lived, worked, and raised families in the community for decades. Islamic burial practices differ from conventional ones in key ways, including: • Burial without embalming • The body positioned to face Mecca (Qibla) • Simple grave markers and natural burials • Burial typically within 24 hours of death Currently, Muslim families in Mashpee face two primary options—both of which are prohibitive: 1. Repatriating the body to a country of origin. This option is emotionally taxing, logistically complicated, and extremely expensive. 2. Burial in a Muslim cemetery, which can often cost up to $10,000 per burial, making it financially inaccessible for many families. 6