Montgomery County Council member Kristin Mink issued an apology on Sunday, addressing the Muslim community after her controversial remarks at a school board meeting. During the meeting, Mink criticized Muslim families who opposed the inclusion of an LGBTQ+ curriculum in schools, suggesting their stance aligned them with "White supremacists" and "bigots." Mink, a Democrat and former public school teacher, insisted her original comments were intended to "promote inclusion" but acknowledged they were misconstrued.

The controversy stemmed from Muslim parents and children voicing concerns about the LGBTQ+ curriculum, citing religious objections and requesting opt-out options. One middle school student, Sa'ad, spoke on behalf of approximately 40 Muslim children seeking the ability to opt out of the lessons. Other children also expressed concerns about the age-appropriateness of the material for younger students.

Following Mink's remarks, members of the Muslim community expressed outrage and disappointment. Ismail Royer, director of the Islam and Religious Freedom Action Team for the Religious Freedom Institute, described feeling "shocked" by Mink's statement, particularly since he and others had met with her beforehand. He noted Mink appeared receptive to their concerns during the private discussion, making her public comments even more surprising. Royer reported audible gasps and walkouts from Muslim attendees after Mink's statement.

In her apology, Mink expressed her intention to collaborate with both the Muslim and LGBTQIA+ communities moving forward. Fox News Digital reached out to Mink for further comment, specifically regarding past remarks about "Zionist Jews" and calls for removing "White women" from leadership positions, but did not receive an immediate response.