The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the alleged violent assault on two Muslim students in Waterbury, Connecticut, reportedly targeted because of their Arab heritage and Islamic faith.
Video: CAIR-CT Speaks Out Against Assaults on 2 Muslim Students for Wearing Hijab
[MEDIA NOTE: Tomorrow, CAIR’s Washington, D.C., headquarters will release a national civil rights report documenting a continued rise in Islamophobic incidents across the country, including attacks on Muslim students.]
Two 14-year-old twin sisters who wear the hijab were allegedly physically assaulted by fellow students at Michael Wallace Middle School on March 3. The attack resulted in injuries severe enough to require hospitalization. The parents of the victims report that they have not received sufficient communication from the school regarding disciplinary actions against the perpetrators or a clear plan to ensure their daughters’ safety.
CAIR-CT sent a formal complaint to Waterbury Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Darren Schwartz, demanding an immediate and thorough investigation, compliance with Connecticut’s anti-bullying laws, and a meeting with school officials to ensure that the students are protected.
“Schools must be safe spaces for all students, regardless of their religion or ethnicity. What reportedly happened to these two girls is unacceptable, and the district has a legal and moral obligation to take decisive action to prevent further harm,” said Farhan Memon, Chair of CAIR-CT. “We are calling on Waterbury Public Schools to fully comply with state law and its own anti-bullying policies, including tracking and reporting incidents, ensuring adequate supervision, and providing trauma-informed support for the victims.”
In its letter to the district, CAIR-CT urged Waterbury Public Schools to:
- Conduct a formal investigation and issue a written report of its findings.
- Develop a Student Safety Support Plan to protect the victims, including increased supervision, class schedule adjustments, and mental health support.
- Hold the perpetrators accountable under the district’s Discipline & Student Conduct Policy.
- Confirm whether the assault has been reported to law enforcement as required for criminal-level incidents.
- Improve anti-bullying policies and training to prevent future incidents of religious and racial discrimination.
CAIR-CT is seeking an urgent meeting with school officials, the victims’ parents, and district safety personnel to ensure compliance with these policies.
Earlier today, CAIR-CT also welcomed charges against two suspects involved in antisemitic vandalism of a menorah in Guilford Town Green. CAIR-CT remains committed to advocating for the civil rights and safety of all communities facing discrimination and hate.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: For more information contact Farhan Memon, Chairman, CAIR-CT 203-517-6526 (cell)