(HARTFORD, CT – April 24, 2026) – 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 welcomed the Bethel Board of Education’s decision to officially recognize Eid al-Fitr as a school holiday.
“Recognizing Eid al-Fitr is more than a calendar change – it is a statement of inclusion, dignity, and respect,” said Farhan Memon, Chairman of CAIR-CT. “When Muslim students see their holidays acknowledged, they know they are fully seen and fully valued. This kind of leadership helps create safer, more welcoming schools for all children.”
He said CAIR-CT extended gratitude to the Bethel Board of Education, Superintendent Dr. Christine Carver, and the Board of Education for their thoughtful consideration and commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment.
Memon added: “This historic decision affirms that Muslim students belong. It sends a clear message that their faith, traditions, and identities are valued and respected within the school community. This recognition can have a profound positive impact on students’ mental health by reducing feelings of exclusion, anxiety, and isolation that many Muslim students have historically experienced.
“The decision will also help foster greater understanding among students of all backgrounds. When schools recognize diverse religious and cultural traditions, they create opportunities for students to learn about one another, build empathy, and strengthen relationships across communities. That understanding is essential in combating bullying, discrimination, and hate.”
Eman Beshtawii, the president of Al-Hedaya Islamic Center added: “This recognition is a meaningful step toward ensuring that every student feels a true sense of belonging. It creates an environment where diversity is celebrated and all families feel welcomed. It’s a clear message that affirms Bethel’s appreciation of diversity, inclusion and equity. “
Zia, a student in Bethel Public Schools who led the effort, said: “The moment our Board voted to recognize Eid was heartwarming. I felt a greater sense of belonging and felt truly seen. Seeing Eid recognized by our school district means so much to Muslim students like me. It makes us feel included and respected, and it shows that our community matters.”
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and leadership of local students, community organizers, and Al Hidaya Islamic Center. Their advocacy, persistence, and commitment to their community were instrumental in bringing about this meaningful change. The fifth-grade student Mariam, and Mysha, a student at Bethel Middle School, were overjoyed when the Board of Education officially recognized Eid al-Fitr.
Unfortunately, anti-Muslim bullying remains a serious concern in Connecticut schools. Last year, two Muslim students in Waterbury were violently assaulted in what authorities later classified as a hate crime. Read more HERE. CAIR-CT has also heard from numerous Muslim families across the state whose children have experienced harassment, many of which go unreported.
CAIR-CT encourages school districts across Connecticut to follow Bethel’s example and adopt inclusive policies that reflect the diversity of their student populations including Danbury, Cheshire, Berline, Meriden, Monroe and others.
CAIR-CT offers a comprehensive resource, the Back to School Resource Guide to help educators, administrators, and families foster safe and inclusive school environments.
CAIR-CT also offers the Educator’s Guide to Islamic Religious Practices designed to assist teachers, principals, administrators and other educators in formulating and implementing policies and programs that will help to create a supportive academic environment.
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.
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.
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CONTACT: For media inquiries, please contact: Farhan Memon, Chairman, CAIR-CT 203-517-6526 (cell) or fmemon@cair.com
