As National Bullying Prevention Month starts on October 1, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is calling on K-12 schools and higher education institutions to safeguard anti-genocide students from discrimination and harassment. With the anniversary of the October 7 attacks and the ongoing genocide in Gaza approaching, CAIR emphasizes the legal obligation under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which requires schools to provide an environment free from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin.
CAIR also highlights the importance of protecting free speech under the First Amendment, particularly for students engaging in peaceful protests related to Palestinian rights and human rights advocacy. CAIR’s Research and Advocacy Director, Corey Saylor, expressed concern about the mistreatment of these students, pointing out that several universities, including Columbia University and the University of Texas at Austin, have been designated as “institutions of particular concern” for their hostile response to anti-genocide protests.
CAIR encourages students who experience discrimination or harassment to report these incidents and access resources like CAIR’s Guide Against Bullying and Bias in Schools. The organization continues to work toward fostering inclusive environments on campuses across the U.S., advocating for the rights of Palestinian, Muslim, Arab, and other anti-genocide students.
In 2023, CAIR saw a significant rise in education-related complaints, with 921 cases reported, marking a 219% increase from the previous year. As the struggle against bullying and discrimination continues, CAIR urges educational institutions to uphold their legal obligations and ensure the safety and dignity of all students.
