(COLUMBUS, OH, 2/9/23) – The Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) today condemned the alleged actions of a teacher who displayed an image of an orangutan eating watermelon during a Black History Month segment on the school’s morning announcements.
SEE: Bexley teacher placed on leave after racist image shown at middle school
In a statement CAIR-Ohio, Columbus & Cincinnati Executive Director Amina Barhumisaid:
“This teacher’s alleged actions are unacceptable and perpetuate damaging myths about Black people. It is important to recognize that these incidents cause significant harm to Black students and families. We demand that swift action be taken to address this incident and to ensure that all educators are culturally competent and responsive to their students and the broader community.
“It is especially egregious that this reportedly occurred during a lesson on Black History Month—a time to celebrate the contributions and accomplishments of Black Americans. We will not tolerate any actions that demean or marginalize Black people, and we urge the school district to take immediate steps to rectify this situation and take the necessary steps to provide ongoing DEI training and support to ensure that teachers are equipped to create inclusive and respectful learning environments for all students.
“Racism and discrimination have no place in our classrooms or in any aspect of our society, and we are committed to working together to eradicate these harmful practices and promote equity and justice for all.”
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR-Ohio has offices in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland. CAIR-Ohio’s mission is to protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi, abarhumi@cair.com, 614-763-6557; CAIR-Ohio
