(HARTFORD, CT, 5/1/26) – The Connecticut chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CT), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the reported anti-Muslim bullying and physical assault of a 12-year-old Muslim student at a Danbury public school and called for urgent statewide action.
According to the student’s family, the child – identified as “Yusef” to protect his privacy – was subjected to repeated harassment over the course of this school year, including being called a “terrorist” by his classmates. The family reports that the situation escalated into a physical altercation that left the student with a black eye and ongoing emotional distress.
In an especially troubling development, the Danbury Police Department searched the family’s home after allegations were made against the student—allegations the family strongly disputes. No weapons of any kind were found at the home. The family also reports that despite multiple attempts to seek help, their concerns were not consistently documented or escalated, and that the incident was at times characterized as “just a fight.”
CAIR-CT is currently working with the family and met with the Superintendent of Danbury Public Schools to better understand how the situation was handled, including whether appropriate protocols for reporting, documentation, and intervention were followed.
“No child should ever fear going to school because of their faith or background,” said Farhan Memon, Chairman of CAIR-CT. “When a Muslim child is reportedly called a terrorist, injured in an altercation, and his family feels their concerns were minimized, it raises serious questions about whether our schools are equipped to recognize and respond to anti-Muslim bullying before it escalates. We must do better.”
CAIR-CT emphasized that Yusef’s experience reflects broader concerns reported by Muslim families across Connecticut and underscores the urgent need for systemic solutions.
The organization is calling on the Connecticut General Assembly to immediately pass House Bill 5328, “AN ACT ESTABLISHING A WORKING GROUP TO ADDRESS ANTI-MUSLIM AND ANTI-ARAB RACISM IN SCHOOLS.” which would establish a statewide working group to examine and address anti-Muslim and anti-Arab racism in public schools, including bullying, reporting protocols, and culturally competent responses.
“HB 5328 is not symbolic – it is necessary,” Memon added. “Without clear statewide standards and accountability, incidents like this risk being misunderstood, underreported, or mishandled. This legislation would help ensure that schools have the tools and guidance needed to protect every student.”
CAIR-CT noted that this is not an isolated concern. Similar incidents in Connecticut including last year in Waterbury where two Muslim middle school students were assaulted by classmates. These incidents highlight the need for a coordinated, statewide response.
In addition to legislative action, CAIR-CT is urging school districts across Connecticut to:
- Strengthen reporting and documentation protocols for bullying and harassment;
- Ensure timely and appropriate intervention when concerns are raised;
- Provide training for staff on recognizing and addressing anti-Muslim and identity-based bullying;
- Offer culturally competent support to affected students and families.
CAIR-CT also offers resources for educators and families, including its Educator’s Guide to Islamic Religious Practices and Back to School Resource Guide, to help foster inclusive and supportive learning environments.
According to CAIR’s most recent civil rights report, complaints of anti-Muslim bias and discrimination have continued to rise nationwide, reflecting an ongoing pattern of Islamophobia impacting communities across the country.
CAIR-CT is the Connecticut chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: Farhan Memon, CAIR-CT Chairman 203-517-6526 or fmemon@cair.com
