Press Release: Calls for Resignation Mount Against Illinois Senator Over Allegations of Racism
CHICAGO – Pressure is intensifying for Illinois State Senator Sara Feigenholtz to resign amid allegations of racist remarks made during a personal encounter with local high school teacher Fuzia Jarad. Jarad, an English teacher from Oak Lawn, publicly detailed her distressing experience with the senator, stating, “Senator Feigenholtz is a danger to the people of Illinois. She made incredibly racist statements to my face.”
On Wednesday, Jarad, alongside leaders from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), demanded Feigenholtz’s resignation, highlighting what they allege to be a pattern of incendiary anti-Muslim rhetoric. Feigenholtz, a Democrat representing the 6th District, has faced backlash since a controversial response she made on social media. In her reply on "X," she referred to supporters of Islam derogatorily and made offensive comments insinuating that Muslims would destabilize the community.
Jarad recounted a particularly unsettling statement from Feigenholtz: “before we know it, Muslims and people from over there will be here on the streets shooting people.” She expressed her shock at the senator’s further comment about the potential for Fridays to be a day off, akin to existing weekends.
In response to the allegations, Feigenholtz has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, claiming the accusations are “false and without merit.” She emphasized her commitment to restoring trust within her community while denouncing what she perceives as misinformation.
As calls for accountability grow, CAIR has requested Senate President Don Harmon to take action against Feigenholtz if she refuses to resign, specifically seeking her removal from committee leadership positions. The unfolding situation continues to raise concerns over the implications of public discourse around race and identity in Illinois.
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