Seattle schools prepare for ‘Harm a Muslim day’ Tuesday

It may be a sick prank. It may just be for shock value. But Seattle Public Schools isn’t taking any chances and is warning parents about “Harm a Muslim Day.”

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Seattle Public Schools sent an email to parents Monday evening, warning them of a potential threat to students.

Officials are increasing security on campuses Tuesday.

The “Harm a Muslim Day” theme has spread across social media in recent weeks with many promoting April 3 as the day. Twitter feeds have featured discussions about “Harm a Muslim Day,” “Punish a Muslim Day,” “Attack a Muslim Day,” or some variation on hurting Muslims.

While the threat spread mostly in the United Kingdom, Seattle school officials said they are not taking chances. The district’s email to parents states:

In recent weeks, a social media post from the United Kingdom began promoting April 3 as “Harm a Muslim” Day. Social media can spread messages quickly, and some of SPS students are talking about this. While this activity seems to be focused in Europe, in an abundance of caution, there will be increased security at schools. If you hear of something, please contact the district Safety & Security office at 206-252-0510 or call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency. As a school system, we will do everything we can to make sure our students are safe while in our care. Anyone who feels unsafe or targeted for any reason should immediately contact a trusted adult. Harassment of any kind is not, and will not, be tolerated in Seattle Public Schools.

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