Civil Rights group acknowledges new religious accommodations including iftar meals during Ramadan
(BALTIMORE, Md., 12/21/2022) – Today, the Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) welcomed Johns Hopkins University’s commitment this week to address security and chaplaincy-related concerns for Muslim students at its Baltimore campus in response to a letter CAIR wrote last week.
Muslim students told CAIR that in the past, prayer services frequently began late, interfering with class schedules and commitments, and there was little opportunity for students to engage, provide feedback, share concerns or confide about struggles they were experiencing.
The university has confirmed that it will consult with Muslim students regarding their needs and experiences and include them in the process as they search for a new chaplain.
CAIR also noted security concerns about the current prayer space, to which administration has committed to seeking input from Muslim students on constructing or designating a new prayer room with adjacent ablution stations. In addition, the university pledged to provide daily iftar meals during the holy month of Ramadan for the Johns Hopkins University Muslim Association (JHUMA).
“The Johns Hopkins University Muslim Association greatly appreciates the efforts of Johns Hopkins University, especially the Diversity and Inclusion deans, in promoting a welcoming atmosphere for Muslim students and other diverse student groups,” the JHUMA Board said in a statement to CAIR. “We are grateful for their prompt response to ensuring our safety and accommodating our religious needs. We look forward to collaborating with the institution in securing and fulfilling the rights of Muslim students on campus.”
“These steps reflect that the university is prioritizing its student body’s needs,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “We thank them for demonstrating this commitment to diversity and inclusivity and look forward to positive outcomes.”
Qualified candidates interested in applying for the chaplaincy position at Johns Hopkins University may do so here:
https://jobs.jhu.edu/job/Baltimore-Assistant-Chaplain-MD-21218/898731600/
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
END
CONTACT: CAIR Office in Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, [email protected], 410-971-6062