Florida School District to Recognize American Muslim Heritage Month

One week after voting in favor of recognizing National Day of Prayer, the Broward School Board is set to vote on a resolution proclaiming May "American Muslim Heritage Month".

The resolution which the board will take up at their Tuesday meeting, states "Freedom of Religion holds distinction as a cherished right and foundational value upon which the laws and ethics of the United States are based. Enriched by unparalleled diversity of its residents, Broward County Public Schools takes great pride in supporting individual religious freedoms and is strengthened by the many varied cultural traditions of its diverse population, including those of American Muslims."

The resolution states that the history of Islam in America dates back to before the country's founding when enslaved Africans brought Islam to America. The resolution state that Muslims "later contributed in numerous ways to the founding of the nation."

The resolution goes on to state that American Muslims "have nonetheless been forced to endure harassment, assault and discrimination since the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001."

The September 11 terrorist attacks were carried out by Al-Qaeda, a militant Islamic terrorist group.

Last week the board voted 5-3 to recognize National Day of Prayer with Board Members Sarah Leonardi, Allen Zeman and Jeff Holness voting no.

"To our trans students, employees and community members, I see you, I love you and I'm here for you," Board Member Sarah Leonardi said when commenting on why she would vote no to the resolution. "I think when we as a board, in a position of authority urge people to participate in a faith-based celebration, it is in appropriate." Leonardi voted no on the resolution on "legal and moral" grounds.

The Floridian reached out to all Broward School Board Members and Broward Schools for comment but received no responses.

Read the resolution here: