(SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ, 10/8/2021) –The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) today called for the immediate firing of a Maplewood, N.J., teacher for allegedly pulling off the Islamic head scarf, or hijab, of a 2nd grade Muslim student.
On Wednesday, the teacher at Seth Boyden Elementary allegedly forcibly removed the student’s hijab. The young student reportedly resisted by trying to hold onto her hijab, but the teacher allegedly pulled it off, exposing her hair to the class.
The teacher reportedly told the student that her hair was beautiful, and she did not have to wear hijab to school anymore. Maplewood Police are investigating the incident.
SEE: Teacher Pulls Hijab From Head of Muslim Student at Elementary School in Maplewood
District Reacts to Seth Boyden Elementary Alleged Hijab Removal by Teacher
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2021/10/08/seth-boyden-elementary/
In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“We call for the immediate firing of the teacher. Anything less is an insult to the students and parents of Maplewood. Forcefully stripping off the religious head scarf of a Muslim girl is not only exceptionally disrespectful behavior, but also a humiliating and traumatic experience.
“Muslim students already deal with bullying from peers, it’s unthinkable that a teacher would add to their distress. Islamophobia in our public schools must be addressed in New Jersey and nationwide. Classrooms are a place for students to feel safe and welcome, not fear practicing their faith.”
SEE: CAIR Marks Beginning of National Bullying Prevention Month with Resource Doc for Schools to Combat Anti-Muslim Bullying
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, 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.
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CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut, 908-267-3119,smaksut@cair.com