With National Bullying Prevention Month kicking off in October, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) is urging higher education institutions and K-12 schools to prioritize the safety and well-being of students who speak out against genocide.

In a recent statement, CAIR expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of anti-genocide activism being met with hostility and silencing tactics. They highlighted the chilling effect on free speech and the potential for creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation for students advocating for justice and accountability.

“It is crucial that schools and universities recognize the importance of creating environments where students feel safe to learn about and speak out against genocide,” said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad. “Bullying and intimidation tactics aimed at silencing anti-genocide activism are unacceptable and undermine the very principles of academic freedom and social justice.”

CAIR has called for concrete steps to protect these students, including:

Implementing clear policies prohibiting bullying and harassment based on political or social activism.

Providing training for faculty and staff on recognizing and responding to anti-genocide student activism.

Establishing clear procedures for reporting and investigating incidents of intimidation and harassment.

Creating safe spaces for students to discuss and learn about genocide and its impact.

By taking these steps, educational institutions can ensure that students feel empowered to engage in crucial conversations about historical atrocities and advocate for preventing future genocides. Creating an environment where all voices are heard and respected is not only essential for combating injustice, but also for fostering a truly inclusive and equitable learning environment.