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Resolution 95, sponsored by Council Member Shahana Hanif, would call upon the New York City Department of Education to consult with faith-based organizations to develop and provide all grade levels with a curriculum that focuses on religious diversity.

The resolution also calls for providing professional development focused on religious diversity for teachers, staff, and administrators, ensuring accurate classification of hate crimes in annual school reports and immediate notification and full disclosure to parents of hate crime statistics, and ensuring that schools take actions to condemn bullying and harassment based on religious clothing, food requirements, and the need for prayer space and time year-round.

“As lead sponsor of Resolution 95 and Co-Chair of the Council’s Task Force to Combat Hate, I am proud to see the Council advance this important Resolution, which urges the Department of Education to collaborate with faith-based organizations to create a comprehensive curriculum on religious diversity for all grade levels,” said Council Member Shahana Hanif. “Educating students about New York City’s vibrant mosaic of religions is key to fostering understanding, respect, and mutual appreciation among our youth.

Backed by a broad interfaith coalition, this resolution embodies the diverse religious tapestry of our city and emphasizes that religious discrimination can be challenged and unlearned. With a troubling rise of antisemitic, Islamophobic, and other hate crimes, it is more crucial than ever to cultivate inclusivity and prevent hate through education.”

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