Councilmember Kristin Mink Releases Statement Apologizing to Muslim Community For Remarks Made During Board of Education Meeting

Montgomery County Councilmember Kristin Mink has released a statement apologizing to the Muslim community for remarks made during the Montgomery County Board of Education meeting about inclusive education and whether families should be permitted to opt their children out of LGBTQIA-inclusive curriculum materials. During the meeting, Mink stated the following, “…it’s more complicated than a lot of people would like to think it is. This issue has unfortunately put, it does put, some, not all of course, but some Muslim families on the same side of an issue as white supremecists and outright bigots and you know, however, the folks who I’ve talked to here today…I would not put in the same categories as those folks. Although, you know, it’s again complicated, because they’re falling on the same side of this particular issue.” Below is the statement released by Councilmemebr Mink today:

“On Tuesday, June 6, I spoke at a Montgomery County Board of Education meeting about inclusive education and whether families should be permitted to opt their children out of LGBTQIA-inclusive curriculum materials. I regret that although my remarks were focused on promoting inclusion, they created an opportunity for misunderstanding and mischaracterization. I apologize for the hurt that caused in the Muslim community.

Even when individuals disagree about difficult issues, I am committed to finding space to foster authentic dialogue and seek points of understanding. I sat down to hear from Muslim community members before my remarks on Tuesday and with District 5 Muslim leaders on Thursday. I listened, and I understand their concerns.

I look forward to continuing to work with members of our Muslim and LGBTQIA+ communities as we take on issues of importance for all residents.”