Statement From Allie-Brennan On Incident Involving The Shilleh Family

**News Release Submitted by State Representative Raghib Allie-Brennan**

Feb. 14, 2025

To the Shilleh family—Mohammed, your family is a valued part of this community, and I’m both outraged and deeply sorry for what happened to your loved ones. No one should have to endure such blatant hate and disrespect, especially in a place we all call home.

For those who may not be aware, members of the Shilleh family were subjected to racist harassment at Caraluzzi’s when a man directed hateful remarks and gestures toward them simply because of their faith. This is unacceptable. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in their own community, and when something like this happens, we cannot look away.

I know that when incidents like this happen, people say, “This isn’t our community.” But the truth is, it did happen here, and that means it is our problem. It’s up to all of us to confront racism and bigotry when we see it to hold people accountable, to stand with our neighbors, and to make it clear that this kind of behavior will not be ignored or excused.

Mohammed, I appreciate everything you and your family do for Bethel. You are not alone, and I will continue to use my voice to fight against hate in all its forms. My office is here as a resource, and I encourage anyone who witnesses acts of discrimination to report them so we can take action together.

We don’t just get to say we’re a strong, welcoming community, we have to prove it.