There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to the Buddhist religion. Many people are unfamiliar with Buddhism and its tenants and only have vague ideas of what Buddhists believe. This can lead to misinformation, unfair assumptions, and discrimination. If you are being targeted, ostracized, or bullied at school on account of your Buddhist faith, there may be legal options to stop the harassment.

What Rights Do Religious Students Have At School?

Students at school have a right to pray, discuss their religion, distribute pamphlets or fliers about their religion, and form groups with other student members of their faith. In general, if a school allows one religious group to do something, it must allow all religious groups or students to do the same thing. Students are also allowed to wear clothing or religious attire that expresses their faith or is part of the practice of their faith.

Public schools are required to provide the most accommodations for students of all faiths. In a private school, like a Catholic preparatory school, the administration is allowed to discriminate in some ways in regard to religious faith—for example, the Catholic school may require its teachers to be practicing Catholics.

What Can You Do If You Are Experiencing Discrimination at School?

If students, teachers, or staff at your school are bullying, harassing, excluding, or tormenting you because of your Buddhist faith, you have some options. First, you should keep track of the times and instances that you experience harassment at school. Next, you should report the harassment to our principal, school administrators, or the appropriate school official. If you are a victim of violence, be sure to report that yourself to the police directly—don't rely on your school to make a police report.

If reporting the harassment or discrimination does not resolve the issue, it may be time to speak to an attorney. An attorney may be able to contact the school administration and work with them to resolve the problem. If that is not effective, an attorney can also help you file a complaint with the Department of Justice or file a lawsuit against the school if possible.

Defending Your Right To Practice Buddhism

Students don't lose their rights to practice their religion once they enter a school building. Your Buddhist faith is important to you, and you deserve the same privileges and protection from discrimination as any other student of faith. If you are experiencing religious discrimination at school, educational attorney-advisor Joseph D. Lento and his team of experienced legal professionals at the Lento Law Firm can help.

Taking on discrimination at school can be a difficult task on your own. We will work with you and your school administration to resolve problems amicably. While we believe in negotiation, we aren't afraid to aggressively protect your rights. Call 888.535.3686 today and schedule your consultation.