Koppell Votes Against Muslim Holidays for Public Schools

Only one member of the City Council education committee has voted against a resolution to include two holidays celebrated by Muslims as part of the list of official public school holidays. It was Oliver Koppell, who represents the Riverdale section of the Bronx. The twelve other committee members in attendance voted in favor. The vote was taken earlier this morning. The two holidays are Eid Ul-Fitr and Eid Ul-Adha. (Via Gotham Schools.) UPDATE: Here’s video of Simcha Felder voting yes on the legislation. He also said that in principle, he objects to public schools closing for any religious holiday, but that since the practice is in place, now, it should be applied uniformly.