(SEATTLE, WA 3/20/19) – The Council on American-Islamic Relations – Washington (CAIR-WA), applauded the Bellevue School District today for a statement committing to creating an inclusive environment for all students. The statement referenced the urgency of ensuring all students feel safe and welcome in the wake of the New Zealand mosque attacks and local immigration enforcement.
The remarks were made yesterday via email By Bellevue School District Superintendent Ivan Duran. In the email Duran stated:
“The Bellevue School District is committed to creating and nurturing an inclusive, diverse, and welcoming community for every student and family in our district. This is especially important to reaffirm in the aftermath of last week's devastating tragedy that occurred at two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, and recent immigration enforcement actions in our city.”
And CAIR-WA Executive Director Masih Fouladi responded:
“Ensuring that all students feel safe and welcome is not only crucial to achieving educational equity it’s also a fundamental right of all students in this nation. We applaud Bellevue School District for committing to these values and CAIR-WA looks forward to working with them around the needs of Muslims students, specifically how to respond effectively to requests for accommodations and potential reports of bullying.”
CAIR-WA has prioritized religious accommodations in post-secondary schools by supporting a Senate Bill ensuring religious accommodations for postsecondary students, sending out letters to schools throughout the state informing them of Muslim holidays and practices, and offering training and consultation to schools looking to increase their sensitivity and knowledge of Islam.
Media Contact:
CAIR-WA Media and Outreach Director, Sarah Stuteville This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 206-403-3931
CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.