The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today applauded the Stratford Board of Education for recognizing Eid-ul-Fitr as a school holiday starting 2027, marking a significant milestone for inclusion, religious accommodation and student equity in the district.
“On behalf of the Stratford community, we extend our sincere gratitude to the Stratford Superintendent of Schools and Board of Education for their strong support and collaboration since this process began last year,” said CAIR-CT chairman Farhan Memon. “Their leadership ensures that Stratford students can now enjoy Eid with their families and friends without fear of missing school or falling behind academically. This important step places Stratford at the forefront of efforts to combat bullying, racism, and hate, and affirms a commitment to creating a more inclusive and respectful environment for Muslim students.”
“Stratford Public Schools is proud to recognize Eid as part of our official school calendar. This decision reflects our ongoing commitment to honoring the diverse backgrounds, cultures, and faiths of our students and families. Every student deserves to feel seen, respected, and supported in our schools, and this is one meaningful step in that work.” – Heather M Borges. Superintendent, Stratford Public Schools
[NOTE: Eid ul-Fitr (EED-al-FITTER), or “feast of fast-breaking,” is the first of the two major Muslim holidays after the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. Many communities hold multicultural bazaars and other family activities following prayers. The second holiday, Eid ul-Adha (EED-al-ODD-ha), comes near the end of the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. Earlier this year, CAIR-CT commended both the Farmington and Avon Board of Education for their decision to recognize Eid-ul-Fitr as an official district-wide holiday in its school district starting in 2027.]
CAIR offers a booklet, called “Educator’s Guide to Islamic Religious Practices,” designed to help school officials provide a positive learning environment for Muslim students.
BACKGROUNDER:
This decision follows sustained community organizing, advocacy, and collaboration between Stratford families, community leaders, and CAIR-CT. The effort reflects a strong partnership between residents and school leadership to ensure that Muslim students feel seen, respected, and supported in their learning environment.
For many years, Muslim students have had to decide between celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr and going to school. Although schools may grant excused absences in recognition of the holiday, this accommodation often does not fully address the impact—students are still responsible for making up tests, assignments, and missed lessons, which can create added stress and disruption for both Muslim and non-Muslim students. Designating Eid as an official school holiday helps eliminate these challenges and ensures Muslim students are treated equitably alongside their peers.
Beyond academic equity, formal recognition of Eid also plays an important role in fostering safer and more inclusive school environments. CAIR’s Massachusetts chapter has reported that 50 percent of Muslim students have experienced bullying by classmates or teachers because of their faith. Public acknowledgment of Muslim holidays helps normalize Muslim identity, educates the broader student body, and serves as a meaningful step toward pushing back against anti-Muslim bias and bullying in schools.
CAIR-CT calls on additional towns across Connecticut to build on the leadership of the 24 municipalities that have already made Eid a school holiday. The organization especially encourages districts such as Danbury, Bethel, North Haven, Cheshire, and Berlin to take similar action. Establishing Eid as a recognized holiday advances fairness in education, helps reduce absenteeism, fosters stronger family involvement, and reflects the increasing diversity within Connecticut’s schools.
As the nation continues to navigate issues of religious inclusion in public schools, Stratford’s decision serves as a model for how districts can create welcoming environments for students of all backgrounds.
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-CT Chairman Farhan Memon, fmemon@cair.com or 203-517-6526 (cell)