Later today, the Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT) will hold a press conference (Tuesday, March 12, at 12 PM) in front of Waterbury Public Schools headquarters to demand immediate action to ensure the safety of two 14-year-old Muslim students who were reportedly assaulted by fellow students due to their Arab origin and Islamic faith.
CAIR-CT will be joined by leaders from Waterbury’s Muslim community and civic leaders to call for accountability, stronger anti-bullying protections, and an investigation by the Waterbury Police Department to address the systemic failures that allowed this attack to happen.
WHAT: Press Conference Demanding Safe Schools for Muslim Students
WHEN: Tuesday, March 12, at 12:00 PM
WHERE: In front of Waterbury Public Schools Headquarters, 236 Grand St #1, Waterbury, CT 06702
WHO: CAIR-CT, Waterbury Muslim Community Leaders, Civic Leaders, Elected Officials
CONTACT: Farhan Memon, Chair, CAIR-CT at 203-517-6526 or fmemon@cair.com
“This attack on Muslim students is unacceptable and reflects a broader pattern of bullying and discrimination that must be urgently addressed,” said Farhan Memon, Chair of CAIR-CT. “Waterbury Public Schools has a legal and moral obligation to ensure that every student—regardless of race, religion, or background—feels safe in the classroom. We are demanding immediate transparency, accountability, and stronger protections for Muslim and Arab students.”
Under Connecticut General Statutes § 10-222d and Waterbury Public Schools’ own anti-bullying policies, the district is required to investigate and document bullying incidents, notify parents, provide safety measures for victims, and hold perpetrators accountable. CAIR-CT and community leaders are calling for:
- A full and transparent investigation into the assault, including disciplinary action against the perpetrators.
- Immediate implementation of a Student Safety Support Plan for the victims.
- Mandatory school-wide anti-bullying training focusing on racial and religious discrimination.
- Regular public reporting of verified bullying incidents to ensure accountability.
- Stronger engagement with Waterbury’s Muslim community to foster an inclusive and safe school environment.
For media inquiries or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Farhan Memon, Chairman, CAIR-CT at 203-517-6526 or fmemon@cair.com
About CAIR-CT
The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT) is a leading civil rights and advocacy organization committed to protecting the rights of American Muslims and promoting justice for all.
### END ###