Experience Fox News articles in a brand new way – by listening! Just last week, I was among a diverse group of parents who came together with one common goal: to protect our children and uphold our constitutional rights. As a parent, imam, and proud American, I was appalled by the decision to remove the opt-out option for sexual orientation and gender identity material in Montgomery County Public Schools. This directly contradicts our religious beliefs and goes against the fundamental right of parents to raise their children according to our deeply held values.
To our surprise, our simple request to restore our right to opt out was met with backlash. Those who oppose us fail to provide a valid argument as to why they should deny us our basic freedoms and parental rights, resorting instead to labeling us as bigots. One Montgomery County Council member even went so far as to claim that Muslims were on the same side as White supremacists, an absurd and hurtful assertion. As an immigrant from Africa, I never imagined I would be associated with such hateful ideologies.
Criticism has also been directed towards Muslims for partnering with evangelicals or conservatives. However, we will not be silenced or deterred. Our unity as parents from diverse faith communities in Montgomery County remains strong. Our children’s well-being is our top priority, and we believe schools should focus on academics rather than indoctrination.
Recent data from the Maryland Department of Education highlights the pressing need to address academic performance, particularly in math and English language arts. Rather than doubling down on these subjects, MCPS seems intent on introducing controversial topics such as gender identity to young children. This can lead to confusion and harm, instead of fostering a strong academic foundation.
MCPS educational materials promote the acceptance and celebration of certain sexual behaviors and gender lifestyles. They even introduce the concept that a boy can become a girl. Many Americans, including Muslims and those with traditional values, believe such instructional materials are confusing and detrimental to children’s emotional and psychological well-being. These materials reflect the agenda of a small group of school administrators who seek to impose fringe left-wing values against the wishes of parents. It is clear that this is not about education, but rather about indoctrination.
As parents, we have a duty to instill our values in our children and guide their understanding of the world in line with our beliefs. Our fundamental right to raise our children and shape their morals is under threat. Denying children the ability to opt out of a curriculum that contradicts our religious values infringes on our right to religious freedom.
It is important to address the misconception that advocating for an opt-out option stems from hatred. We are unfairly labeled as hateful simply because we do not adopt modern ideas regarding gender identity and sexuality that directly contradict our religious principles. We teach our children to respect all individuals and to love fellow human beings as commanded by the Holy Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Accusing us of hate is a tactic aimed at shutting down legitimate debate and distorting our intentions. It diverts attention from our desire to protect our children, support parental rights, and preserve religious freedom. Allowing children to opt out is not a hateful act, and forcing Muslim children to accept behaviors that we deem sinful does not promote inclusion.
Inclusion should not mean privileging the values of one group over another. It will only lead to increased tensions and chaos. Additionally, it goes against the principles of a pluralistic and diverse society. Just imagine the outcry from the mainstream media if Muslims were to ask for schools to actively promote Muslim values.
We are not seeking special privileges or advocating for the promotion of traditional Muslim ideals of sexuality within schools. We simply ask for the right to opt out. Montgomery County Council member Kristin Mink later apologized for her offensive remark about gender studies aligning some Muslim families with White supremacists. It is crucial to differentiate between promoting respect and nondiscrimination for all Americans and imposing a single set of values on everyone. Unfortunately, it is MCPS that is acting intolerant and totalitarian by imposing one set of moral values on everyone.
As we celebrate Independence Day, I am reminded of the values instilled in me as both a Muslim and an American. I am grateful to live in a constitutional republic that upholds self-government and our rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These values are worth fighting for, as exemplified by my daughter, who proudly serves as a Marine. I am confident that Muslims will continue to play a leading role in this fight for our country’s soul. If we do not stand up against this issue now, it will only worsen. To all the parents across the country who refuse to accept this nonsense, know that you are not alone.
Shaykh El Hadji Sall is a Muslim imam and parent of three children attending Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland. He has testified in favor of the opt-out policy before the Montgomery County Board Of Education.
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