WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-8) released the following statement supporting the availability of Halal food in the New York City public school system:

“New York City public school students should not be compelled to go hungry in order to adhere to religious dietary restrictions.  All of our children deserve the best opportunity to succeed, and adequate nourishment throughout the day is an important part of that success.  Given the growing Muslim population in our school system, including the Bangladeshi-American community, it is time for the Department of Education to make Halal meals available this calendar year.”