Latest news with #PlymouthCanton
CBS News
11 hours ago
- Politics
- CBS News
Michigan groups sue Plymouth-Canton schools over alleged remarks toward Arab American student
The ACLU of Michigan and the Arab American Civil Rights League filed a lawsuit on Wednesday against the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools District and a teacher, months after an Arab American student was allegedly subjected to humiliation and offensive remarks for staying seated during the Pledge of Allegiance. The federal lawsuit claims that on Jan. 6, the 14-year-old middle school student, who is of Palestinian descent, declined to stand and recite the pledge. In response, the teacher allegedly "disrupted the class and admonished (the student) in the presence of her classmates," according to the lawsuit. The teacher then told the student she was "specifically disrespectful to U.S. military forces and the flag, and that she should stand." The student again declined to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance on Jan. 10. The lawsuit alleges that the student approached the teacher after class that day to explain, to which the teacher said, "Since you live in this country and enjoy its freedom, if you don't like it, you should go back to your country." The lawsuit accused the district of failing to protect the student's First Amendment rights. It claims that the student now suffers "extensive emotional and social injuries" as well as loss of sleep, nightmares and stress. "The consequence has been isolation during a period when contact with peers is highly valued and necessary for D.K.'s wellbeing. The impact of these incidents has negatively affected D.K.'s academic performance - a student with a nearly perfect record," read the lawsuit. CBS News Detroit contacted Plymouth-Canton schools on Wednesday for comment, to which the district said it cannot comment on pending litigation. The Arab American Civil Rights League held a press conference in February, demanding action from the school district. The group claimed the district did not contact the student or offer resources to help her cope and that the family had not received an apology. The teen's family filed a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, calling for accountability. The family also demanded an investigation, disciplinary action against the teacher, a public apology and mandatory diversity, equity and inclusion training. At the time, the district said it was conducting an investigation, and action was taken, including placing the teacher on leave. In a statement, school officials said they "facilitated restorative practices between the teacher and students to address any harm, foster understanding and use this as a learning moment." Note: The video above previously aired on Feb. 28, 2025.
The Independent
11 hours ago
- Politics
- The Independent
Palestinian student sues Michigan school over teacher's reaction to her refusal to stand for Pledge
The American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit Wednesday on behalf of a 14-year-old student who said a teacher humiliated her for refusing to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance in protest of U.S. support of Israel 's war in Gaza. Danielle Khalaf's teacher told her, 'Since you live in this country and enjoy its freedom, if you don't like it, you should go back to your country,' according to the lawsuit. Danielle, whose family is of Palestinian descent, declined to recite the Pledge over three days in January. 'We can only marvel at the conviction and incredible courage it took for her to follow her conscience and her heart,' ACLU attorney Mark Fancher said. The lawsuit says her teacher admonished her and told her she was being disrespectful. As a result, Danielle 'suffered extensive emotional and social injuries,' including nightmares, stress and strained friendships, the lawsuit says. The ACLU and the Arab American Civil Rights League said Danielle's First Amendment rights were violated, and the lawsuit seeks a financial award. 'It was traumatizing, it hurt and I know she could do that to other people,' Danielle said at a news conference in February, referring to the teacher's treatment. At that time, the school district said it had taken 'appropriate action,' though it didn't elaborate. 'Discrimination in any form is not tolerated by Plymouth-Canton Community Schools and is taken very seriously,' the district said. The school district declined Wednesday to comment further, citing the litigation. Michigan has more than 300,000 residents of Middle Eastern or North African descent, second in the U.S. behind California, according to the Census Bureau.
