The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today urged the Calvert County State’s Attorney’s Office in Maryland to implement restorative measures in the case of three boys arrested for allegedly “directing offensive comments to a classmate because of the classmate’s religious beliefs.” The religious harassment reportedly began in December 2023 and continued for several months.
The teens have reportedly been charged as juveniles for violating Maryland harassment and hate crime statutes.
“Our schools have to promote inclusive environments where students of all faiths and backgrounds can learn free from bias-motivated harassment, intimidation and violence,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “As a civil rights organization that promotes restorative justice, and especially considering the ages of these students, CAIR urges non-carceral solutions that can help them understand the harmful consequences of their alleged behavior in a constructive and impactful way.”
She said CAIR and the American Muslim community stand in solidarity with all those challenging antisemitism, systemic anti-Black racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, white supremacy, and all other forms of bigotry.
CAIR has provided the following recommendations:
Ensure the safety of all parties involved and address the immediate consequences of the incident. This should include apologizing to the victim(s) and their families.
Education and Awareness:
Educate teens about the harmful effects of hate speech and actions. Help them understand the short-term and long-term impact it can have on individuals, communities, and society as a whole. Provide resources such as books, documentaries, or articles that discuss diversity, inclusion, and empathy.
Counseling and Therapy:
Arrange for the teens to speak with a counselor or therapist who specializes in working with adolescents and addressing issues related to prejudice, discrimination, and anger management. Explore the underlying reasons behind their behavior, such as peer pressure, family influences, or personal insecurities.
Restorative Justice:
Facilitate a restorative justice process and encourage the teens to take responsibility for their behavior and participate in activities that promote reconciliation and healing.
Community Involvement:
Engage the teens in community service projects or initiatives that promote tolerance, diversity, and social cohesion. This can help them develop empathy and a sense of responsibility towards others. Encourage participation in workshops, seminars, or support groups focused on promoting positive social values and combating prejudice.
Parental Involvement:
Consider involving the teens’ parents or guardians in the intervention process. Provide them with resources and guidance on how to support their children in addressing their behavior and attitudes. Encourage open communication within the family about issues related to diversity, inclusion, and respect for others.
Follow-up and Monitoring:
Continue to monitor behavior and provide ongoing support and guidance as needed. Acknowledge positive changes in attitudes and actions. While consequences may be necessary, the focus should be on education, rehabilitation, and fostering a sense of accountability and respect for others.
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; National Deputy Director Edward Ahmed Mitchell, 404-285-9530, e-Mitchell@cair.com; CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw, 202-742-6448, rmccaw@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper, 202-744-7726, ihooper@cair.com; CAIR National Communications Manager Ismail Allison, 202-770-6280, iallison@cair.com