Muslim Civic Coalition Hosts Policy Briefing at Islamic Center of Naperville, Equipping Parents and Leaders to Ensure Culturally Responsive Schools
Naperville, IL (October 17, 2026) — As anti-Muslim rhetoric from public officials continues to rise and shape the environment Muslim students navigate in K-12 schools, the Muslim Civic Coalition joined the Islamic Center of Naperville for a policy briefing at Masjid Al-Hilal (ICN Ogden). Held Saturday, October 17, the session—“Understanding Laws Supporting Faiths & Cultures in Our Schools”—explored Illinois laws and resources that support religious inclusion, cultural understanding, and equitable experiences for students, with particular attention to concerns about how September 11 is taught in classrooms.
Research from Dr. Rania Awaad and Maristan has found that American Muslims are approximately twice as likely to have attempted suicide compared to other groups, a disparity linked in part to experiences of exclusion and anti-Muslim rhetoric. These findings underscore the stakes for Muslim students in schools, where curriculum choices and the surrounding climate can either protect or harm.
Parents and educators explored student religious rights in Illinois, religious holidays and observances, participation during fasting, and the Faith by Plate Act. The session also covered the contributions and history of Muslims in America, implementation of the TEAACH Act, inclusive athletic attire, and cross-cultural mediation among students. Participants received practical tools for self-advocacy, including guidance for students who are fasting, and discussed how days of recognition such as Wadee Day and Muhammad Ali Day create openings for proactive conversations before issues arise.
By building relationships with schools and using existing protections, families can help ensure discussions of September 11—and other sensitive topics—are handled with historical accuracy, cultural awareness, and care for students’ experiences.
Resources shared at the briefing:
Action Alerts
Toolkits and Guides
Contributions and History of Muslims in America Educators’ Guide
Muhammad Ali Toolkit and Lesson Plans from the Ali Center (additional resources)
9/11 Conversation Guides
Parents and educators left equipped to advocate for a culturally responsive education and stronger student belonging.
We can customize this briefing to your community’s needs. If you are interested in joining a workshop, partnering, or scheduling one, reach out to the Muslim Civic Coalition and get more information here. This work is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen leaders across Illinois.
