(COLUMBUS, OH – 5/19/2023) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) is proud to announce the launch of its new “Educator Resource” page. This resource is designed to empower educators by providing a diverse range of books, educator guides and toolkits, and information about the “Educating for Ohio’s Future” campaign.
The launch of this page is a significant step towards fostering inclusive learning environments and promoting understanding of Muslim students, so that they can thrive in their schools. Muslims are the most ethnically and racially diverse faith group in the United States and it is important to include narratives that reflect this data.
The newly launched “Educator Resource” page features a wide selection of books that highlight the rich tapestry of Muslim experiences. These books play a pivotal role in showcasing Muslim characters in a positive light and promoting a deeper understanding of Muslim identities and contributions to society. Unfortunately, several of these books have faced challenges and have been included on ban lists around the country due to misguided perceptions fueled by Islamophobia. CAIR-Ohio firmly believes that these books are vital for providing Muslim students with positive representation and nurturing a sense of belonging in the classroom.
In line with its commitment to combating Islamophobia and uplifting the Muslim community, CAIR-Ohio recognizes the power of education in cultivating understanding, empathy, and respect. The “Educator Resource” page serves as a valuable tool for educators, equipping them with the resources needed to create inclusive classrooms that embrace the diverse experiences of Muslim students.
This announcement comes ahead of the Ohio Education Association’s (OEA) “Summer of Diverse Readers” event, scheduled to take place on Saturday, May 20th. The OEA, in collaboration with the Hilliard Education Association and various community partners, will be distributing 9,000 diverse books to preK-6th grade readers in central Ohio, which is being held as part of the Read Across America year-round Celebrate a Nation of Diverse Readers campaign.
“We believe in the power of diverse books and inclusive education to empower students of all backgrounds, including Muslim students,” said CAIR-Ohio Outreach Director Victoria Hickcox.
“CAIR-Ohio stands united with educators, parents, and communities to ensure every student has the freedom to read age-appropriate books that reflect their experiences and respect their differences as well as foster a society that values understanding and inclusivity.”
To learn more about CAIR-Ohio’s “Educator Resource” visit www.cair-ohio.com/educator-resource.
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR-Ohio’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. CAIR-Ohio has offices in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland.