Daijiworld Media Network - Houston

Houston, Apr 3: A controversy has erupted in the US state of Texas over the rollout of a new private school voucher programme, with Islamic institutions alleging religious discrimination amid rising anti-Muslim rhetoric.

The issue centres around Iman Academy, an Islamic private school in Houston, which had hoped to qualify for state funding under a $1 billion school choice initiative. However, concerns grew after several Islamic schools were initially excluded from the programme.

The voucher scheme, a key policy of Governor Greg Abbott, aims to provide over $10,000 per student to families enrolling in approved private schools. While more than 2,200 schools—including many Christian institutions—received invitations, Islamic schools were not initially included.

The development comes amid heightened political tensions, with some Republican leaders voicing strong anti-Muslim sentiments. Congressman Chip Roy recently posted controversial remarks on social media, while Comptroller Kelly Hancock called for investigations into Islamic schools’ eligibility.

Attorney General Ken Paxton and Hancock have also clashed over the issue, with the former declining to represent the comptroller’s office in a federal lawsuit filed by Islamic schools challenging their exclusion.

Following legal intervention, a federal judge ordered Texas to extend application deadlines and allow Islamic schools to apply. Authorities have since begun issuing invitations to such institutions, though their long-term participation remains uncertain.

Legal representatives for the schools argue that selective exclusion based on religion could violate constitutional protections. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers have backed the inclusion of Islamic schools, warning of potential First Amendment violations.

Islamic institutions, including Iman Academy, have emphasised their commitment to American values and education standards, even as they seek equal access to public funding.

The controversy highlights broader concerns over religious freedom, education policy, and political rhetoric as Texas implements one of the largest school voucher programmes in the United States.