Fury has erupted inTexasafter a taxpayer-funded waterpark unveiled plans to host what was initially advertised as a “Muslim-only” event to celebrateEid.
Epic Waters, a huge indoor waterpark in Grand Prairie near Dallas, faced fierce backlash after promotional material for the “Epic Eid” celebration on June 1 repeatedly stated the event was for “Muslims only” and included a strict modest dress code. The 80,000-square-foot attraction, which opened in 2017 at a cost of $88million (£65million), was funded through a local sales tax approved by residents in a 2014 referendum.
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Critics accused the venue of discrimination and questioned how a publicly funded facility could appear to exclude people based on religion.
Texas radio host Dana Loesch blasted the plans online, writing: “How is a taxpayer-funded, city-owned entity allowed to discriminate against non-Muslims at a public water park?”
Another social media user described the situation as a “civil rights violation”, while others questioned whether a similar “Christians only” event would be permitted.
Following the backlash, organiser Aminah Knight said the event had been misunderstood and insisted it was not intended to exclude non-Muslims.
An updated version of the flyer removed the phrase “Muslim only” and replaced it with “modest dress only”, while adding the message: “Come and celebrate Eid with us, all are welcome!”
Ms Knight told The New York Post: “The core intention behind this event is to create a space where individuals and families who value modest dress and a modest environment can come together and feel comfortable enjoying a recreational space that often doesn’t naturally accommodate those preferences.”
Source: Daily Express :: World Feed
