Protesters call for investigation after Palestinian students told to take off traditional scarves
CTV
About 20 people rallied outside the Nova Scotia education minister’s office Monday after students of Palestinian descent were allegedly told to take off cultural garments during a multicultural day at a school in Halifax last week.
About 20 people rallied outside the Nova Scotia education minister’s office Monday after students of Palestinian descent were allegedly told to take off cultural garments during a multicultural day at a school in Halifax last week.
On Wednesday, students at Park West School wore clothing representing their cultures.
However, students of Palestinian descent were reportedly singled-out and told to remove their Keffiyeh’s – traditional scarf-like garments that represent the Palestinian culture and identity.
“We are demanding an independent investigation into this incident,” said Rana Zaman, as she addressed those in attendance Monday.
“We demand that the principal of Park West School and HRCE [Halifax Regional Centre for Education] issue a formal apology to the Palestinian students and their families, as well as to the broader community who felt attacked and discriminated against.”
The group which held the rally is calling on the HRCE to incorporate zero-tolerance policies for any form of anti-Palestinian racism. Zaman says training programs need to be developed for school communities to understand and address anti-Palestinian racism.
Maamoun Alhindi told CTV News Sunday that his nephew was one of the students who was told to take off the garment.
