UK MUSLIMS PUPILS OFF TO CELEBRATE EID AL-ADHA

Middlesborough, 12 Dhulhijjah 1436/25 September 2015 (MINA) – The Outwood Academy at Acklam in Middlesborough UK has refused to let its Muslim pupils take Thursday, (09/24) off to celebrate Eid al-Adha, saying they should mark the religious holiday today instead.

The school sent a letter to parents stating that the Muslim pupils will not be granted an authorised absence, but were permitted to take the day off when the school will be closed to all pupils as part of a professional development day for its teachers, the Teeside Gazette reports, World Bulettin quoted by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA) as reporting.

One outraged mother said she immediately contacted the school after receiving a letter explaining its stance on Monday, but said staff refused to change their minds.

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The mother of the schoolgirl, who remained anonymous said to the newspaper: “Friday doesn’t mean anything. Eid is on Thursday.

“They normally have it off no problem my son was given the day off by Linthorpe Primary.

“A lot of parents will be unhappy.”

Muslims mark the day through prayers, by exchanging gifts and enjoying a feast with family and friends.

The letter sent by the Academy to parents said, “We allow all students who are registered as Muslim, one day authorised absence to celebrate this important occasion.

“A PD day has been scheduled for Friday 25 September 2015, during which the Academy will be closed to students. This has been planned to coincide with Eid.

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“It is on this day that students will be allowed authorised absence.”

The angry mother told the Teeside Gazette that her daughter would not be attending the school today and that she would not accept having this marked as an unauthorised absence. (T/Imt/R03)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)