The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today welcomed the Baltimore County Board of Education’s unanimous passage of a resolution aimed at enhancing protections for immigrant students.
SEE: Baltimore County Board of Education passes measure to protect rights of immigrant students
The resolution comes at a time when federal policies have created an environment of fear and uncertainty within immigrant communities and led to rising anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Last month, a Baltimore County Public School (BCPS) teacher reportedly used social media to target Hispanic students by tagging U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and offering their names for investigation.
CAIR Maryland stands in solidarity with the students, parents, and community allies who advocated for this important measure. Their voices have been instrumental in driving positive change within our schools.
“As the nation grapples with increased deportations and heightened immigration enforcement, it is crucial that our local education systems reaffirm their commitment to inclusivity and support for all students, regardless of their immigration status,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “The board’s move reflects the importance of education as a fundamental right.”
The resolution acknowledges the challenges faced by immigrant students, and affirms the right of every child to access a free public K-12 education regardless of immigration status.
The Board expressed a commitment to student data privacy, policies that prohibit bullying, harassment, and intimidation, and training on students’ rights to ensure that educators and staff are equipped to support all students.
CAIR urges all educational institutions to uphold the rights of their students and to create environments where each one feels safe, respected, and empowered to pursue their education without fear.
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.
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CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR Maryland Outreach Coordinator Kimberlyb, ksyuardi@cair.com, 202-850-9293