Edison BOE Member Apologizes For Anti-Muslim Facebook Posts

EDISON, NJ — The Vice President of Edison School Board of Education has publicly apologized for making anti-Muslim comments in the past.

Mohin Patel apologized to Edison’s Muslim community for sharing “controversial and hurtful” Facebook posts back in 2016.

The incident came to light after New Jersey Globe published a story on Patel’s anti-Muslim social media posts.

In his letter, Patel said that at the time of sharing the social media post, events from “other corners of the world” riled up sentiments and polarized local communities, “which led to people here picking sides and commenting on international affairs across the planet that they had no direct control over.”

"Regrettably, I too fell into that trap,” said Patel.

The board member said he has grown and matured over the years and now has a “much deeper understanding of all the diverse communities in Edison.”

“Back then, I used to stir up occasional debates on controversial topics. But my friends and mentors in the Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, and other communities have over the years shown me more constructive ways to engage in dialogues, and I thank them for it,” Patel said.

"I have learned that the Quran, much like my own holy books, preaches forgiveness. And I humbly ask for your forgiveness.”

The New Jersey Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) has welcomed Patel’s apology.

“We welcome Mr. Patel’s apology letter for his anti-Muslim Facebook posts. Such postings should never be tolerated from local leaders,” Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said in a statement.

“Edison is a rich and diverse community, and its leaders should work to create an inclusive environment welcoming of its Muslim residents.”

Patel was the top vote getter in last November’s Board of Education race with 9,418 votes. He was also among the individuals named by United States Postal Inspection Service report for his alleged involvement in the racist flyer incident from November 2017.

Read More Here: Councilman, BOE Members Named In Edison Racist Flyer Probe

In a statement to Patch, Patel had denied his involvement in the incident and said he was willing to testify under oath.

You can read Patel’s apology letter here.

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