The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, and its Minnesota chapter (CAIR-Minnesota) today applauded children’s educator and online personality Ms. Rachel for publicly expressing support for Minnesota Muslim children and their right to religious freedom after President Donald Trump shared a social media post targeting a group of Minnesota kindergarten students because many of the girls wore Islamic head scarves (hijab) at their private school graduation.
Ms. Rachel posted a message expressing solidarity with the children, expressing her support for their right to wear hijab, and reminding families that every child deserves to feel safe, respected, and loved regardless of their faith.
SEE: Ms. Rachel backs Muslim kindergartners after Trump’s post – USA Today
SEE ALSO: Ms. Rachel sends message to Minnesota kindergarteners following Trump’s hijab post – Bring Me the News
Muslim school in Minnesota concerned for student safety after Trump shares clip of its graduation – The Independent
Trump accused of endangering children with Islamophobic post about Twin Cities kindergarteners – CBS
Local leaders condemn Trump post about Muslim kindergartners – Pioneer Press
In a statement, CAIR and CAIR-Minnesota said:
“We thank Ms. Rachel for showing the moral courage and compassion that every child deserves from public figures. When children are singled out and targeted because of their faith, voices of kindness and solidarity matter. Her response reminds American Muslim children that they are valued, that they belong, and that millions of Americans reject the politics of hate. We hope more influential voices will follow Ms. Rachel’s example by standing up against rising anti-Muslim bigotry and defending the dignity and safety of every child.”
Earlier this week, CAIR and CAIR-Minnesota condemned the president’s actions, stating that using the power of the presidency to single out Muslim children “puts a target on them and their school.”
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CONTACT: CAIR National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, [email protected]; CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, 202-742-6448, [email protected]; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, [email protected]; CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, [email protected]