The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American Islamic Relations today encouraged all public and private schools to allow students to display their cultural identity as they celebrate a major milestone in one of the most diverse states in the country.
CAIR-New Jersey is calling on school officials across the state to permit students to wear displays of cultural attire and general identity, which is a prominent symbol of Palestinian and Arab culture dating back thousands of years.
SEE: Student says Pennsylvania high school forced them to remove keffiyeh at graduation ceremony
Roughly 25 percent of New Jersey’s population are immigrants or children of immigrants, making the Garden State one of the most diverse states in the U.S. It is imperative that school officials not only acknowledge but celebrate the display of New Jersey’s vibrant diversity, a core value that strengthens ties between communities and encourages inter-cultural awareness.
In a statement, CAIR-New Jersey Advocacy and Community Relations Associate Mousa Naji said:
“Graduation is a time for students to celebrate their achievements and embrace their identities. For many, wearing symbols of cultural pride—such as the keffiyeh—is not only a personal expression but a reflection of their heritage and a connection to their roots.
“Schools should be a place that fosters inclusivity, respect and appreciation for cultural diversity. By allowing students to proudly display symbols of their cultural identity, we send a message of acceptance, respect, and inclusivity.”
Recently, CAIR-New Jersey received complaints from students who were not permitted to wear their keffiyeh during graduations. The students said they felt targeted and singled out merely over exercising their right to expression.
Naji emphasized that school policies should reflect the rich diversity of the state’s student body, ensuring that every student is allowed to express themselves in a manner that honors their cultural history without fear of discrimination, retaliation or exclusion.
While the policies introduced after October 7, 2023, may appear to be fair and neutral, their true purpose is to suppress the expression of Palestinian identity and pride. Such bias is unacceptable and will be challenged by CAIR-NJ and local communities, Naji noted.
Yesterday, CAIR’s national office announced the filing of a lawsuit against the Montgomery County Board of Education in Rockville, Maryland, challenging Sligo Middle School’s rule prohibiting teachers from displaying the Palestinian flag but allowing the display of other flags, including that if Israel.
Earlier this year, CAIR released its 2025 Civil Rights Report “Unconstitutional Crackdowns,” which reveals that Islamophobia continues to be at an all-time high across the country. CAIR said viewpoint discrimination against those speaking out against genocide and apartheid was a key factor in many cases.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Communications Manager Aya Elamroussi, aelamroussi@cair.com, 551-208-5482