The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT) is proud to announce that the Milford Board of Education has officially recognized Eid as a district-wide school holiday. Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed by Milford school district starting in 2026. The BOE unanimously voted to add Eid-ul-Fitr to its school calendar at a meeting Monday night. This significant step highlights the growing recognition of diversity and inclusion within Connecticut’s public school system.
CAIR-CT extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Anna Cutaia, superintendent of Milford public schools, for her leadership and dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for all students. We also commend the Milford Board of Education for their vision and commitment to celebrating the rich cultural fabric of the community.
This news comes four days after CAIR-CT’s press conference at the Capitol building in Hartford to announce that January is officially recognized as Muslim Heritage Month in Connecticut. These initiatives highlight the importance of fostering cultural understanding and ensuring that all communities feel represented and valued.
This landmark decision by Milford reflects the district’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and religious accommodation, and it represents a significant step forward in ensuring that the needs of Muslim students and families are acknowledged and respected within Connecticut’s educational system.
“This recognition of Eid as a holiday sends a powerful message of inclusion and respect to Muslim families in Milford and across Connecticut,” said Farhan Memon, Chairman of CAIR-CT. “It reflects the importance of ensuring all students feel seen, valued, and supported in their educational experience. We hope this serves as a model for other districts across the state.”
Eid-ul-Fitr is one of the holiest celebrations in the Islamic calendar, marking a time of prayer, family gatherings, and community reflection. Recognizing it as a school holiday ensures that Muslim students and families can observe their faith without the stress of academic obligations. It also contributes to the Muslim students overall well-being and sense of belonging.
“By including Eid as a holiday in the school calendar, Milford BOE has taken a proactive step towards ensuring that Muslim students can fully participate in their religious observances with their families without fear of missing important school activities or exams,” added Memon.
“As a father, recognizing Eid as a holiday in Milford not only allows my child to celebrate Eid as a day of faith, but also helps our family feel seen, recognized, and valued as part of the Milford community,” said Mohammad Tellawi, a parent who participated and helped lead the Eid campaign. “It gives us a deep sense of belonging. I could see the happiness in my child’s eyes, and I am certain this will have a lasting, positive impact on her mental health and overall well-being.”
Rania, Mohammad’s daughter who attends 2nd grade was overjoyed when she heard the Board recognized Eid on the calendar. Her face lit up with excitement. “I will be able to celebrate Eid with my family and friends,” said Rania. I am not worried about missing out on school activities and class assignments anymore.”
Milford joins several other school districts in Connecticut which have added Eid-ul-Fitr to the school calendar in recent years including Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport, Fairfield, Trumbull, West Haven, New Haven, Hamden, New Britain, Waterbury, South Windsor, and Manchester.
CAIR-CT recognizes the importance of religious accommodation in educational settings and remains committed to advocating for the rights of Muslim students and families across Connecticut.
CONTACT: Farhan Memon Chairman (CAIR-CT) fmemon@cair.com or 203-517-6526 (cell)
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