Edina Public Schools is being investigated by the United States Department of Education following allegations that the school suspended two Muslim students from Edina High School following a pro-Palestine rally in November.
The DOE launched their Title VI Discrimination investigation on January 30th and came following a complaint filed in late November after the two students were suspended for chanting 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free.'
The chant is considered to be antisemitic by many.
Minnesota Council on American-Islamic Relations Executive Director Jaylani Hussein spoke when the complaint was filed.
"Today we are sending a strong message to Edina Public Schools," Hussein said. "Also to other public schools, to make sure they protect Muslim and Jewish students. To check in with those students. And also to make sure they do not violate their constitutionally protected rights."
Edina Public Schools responded to the investigation on Tuesday:
Edina Public Schools is aware that the U.S. Department of Education has opened a Title VI discrimination investigation. The District would like to affirm its unwavering support for students' First Amendment right to free expression and to peacefully advocate for causes that are important to them. Similarly, the District has strong policies prohibiting any type of discrimination against students based on their religion or any other basis protected under the Minnesota Human Rights Act.
The District cannot comment on any particular students or allegations as that information would be considered private data protected by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA) and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). However, students do not have unfettered First Amendment rights while on school property and students do not have a right under the First Amendment to engage in speech that is substantially disruptive or that violates District policies.
Our core beliefs in Edina Public Schools are grounded in the inherent dignity of all people. We value and appreciate the diversity of all of our students. Edina Public Schools deeply condemns islamophobia and antisemitism. We will not tolerate hateful or inappropriate comments or behaviors and will work diligently to provide a safe and inclusive environment for our students and staff.
