The Philadelphia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Philadelphia), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization serving Pennsylvania and Delaware, today welcomed the Appoquinimink School Board’s public statement following concerns about Board Member Elena Brenner’s reportedly anti-Muslim social media post. The organization urged concrete steps to support Muslim students and rebuild community trust.
CAIR-Philadelphia sent a letter to district and board leadership, supporting concerns raised in a community petition. Parents requested a formal apology, a public reaffirmation of board member standards of conduct, and a district-wide communication clarifying expectations for public statements and social media activity. The Appoquinimink Education Association has also issued a public statement in support of Muslim community.
In a statement, CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Ahmet Tekelioglu said:
“We appreciate the district’s prompt response and welcome the School Board’s public statement. Following conversations with community members, we are encouraged by district leadership’s willingness to engage. A constructive and concrete next step would be a timely meeting with Muslim families to discuss measures that prioritize student well-being and begin rebuilding trust.
“Muslim families are an integral part of the Appoquinimink community. Their children contribute through student leadership, community service, and everyday participation in school life. They deserve the same dignity, respect, and support as every other student.
“We continue to urge Ms. Brenner to offer a sincere public apology, meet with Muslim students and families, and listen to their experiences. The district’s Muslim community remains hopeful that this can become a meaningful learning moment—a step toward greater understanding, maturity in public leadership, and sustained community engagement. We stand ready to help support that process.”
In a statement The Executive Committee of the Islamic Society of Delaware (ISD) said:
“Elected school district officials have a responsibility to uphold the values of respect, inclusion, and safety for every student and family, regardless of faith or background. These values are fundamental to our American identity and are as American as apple pie.
“Islamophobic rhetoric and content are unacceptable and undermine the principles of equality, mutual respect, and the dignity of every member of our community. We urge all public officials to lead by example, reject religious prejudice, and help ensure that our schools and communities remain welcoming and safe for all.”
Tekelioglu reiterated CAIR-Philadelphia’s willingness to facilitate community dialogue and education about Islam and Muslim communities. He noted that CAIR-Philadelphia offers An Educator’s Guide to Islamic Religious Practices, a resource designed to help school officials support Muslim students and create a positive learning environment.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-Philadelphia Executive Director Ahmet Tekelioglu, PhD, [email protected], 617-401-5397