PG County Settles Lawsuit After Muslim Chaplain Discrimination Claims

Jan 28, 2026, 2:50 AM

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Prince George's County has settled a federal lawsuit involving Imam Edrees Bridges, who claimed discrimination when applying for a chaplain position that was restricted to Christians. The county will pay Bridges $195,000 and restore him to his role as a volunteer chaplain at the Prince George's County Correctional Center, according to settlement documents filed on January 23.

The controversy arose when Bridges, who had previously served as a volunteer chaplain since 2018, attempted to apply for a paid position facilitated by the Prison Ministry of America (PMA). The application required him to affirm a "Statement of Applicant's Christian Faith," which he could not endorse as a devout Muslim. This requirement led Bridges to file a lawsuit in 2021, asserting that the policy violated his constitutional rights under the First Amendment, specifically regarding the prohibition of religious discrimination in government employment.

Bridges' case gained support from the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which argued that the application process effectively barred him from a job that should be open to individuals of all faiths. CAIR Legal Defense Fund Staff Attorney John Fossum emphasized the importance of this settlement, stating, "The First Amendment protects all of us." He noted that the lawsuit highlighted a clear violation of religious rights that should be upheld for every citizen.

The settlement was reached just before a trial was to begin, with both parties agreeing to terms that also include PMA's commitment to eliminate religious tests in future hiring processes for similar government contracts. The organization had initially claimed that applicants were not required to sign the statement, but Bridges' experience contradicted that assertion.

CAIR's legal team indicated that the case was a straightforward matter of religious freedom. Bridges' attorney, Mirriam Seddiq, remarked that requiring a statement of Christian faith for a position meant to provide spiritual support to all inmates was discriminatory and inappropriate. Furthermore, the settlement reinstates Bridges as a volunteer chaplain, which is considered a significant gesture that can positively impact the inmates who will have access to his services.

Imam Bridges expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, calling it a victory for all chaplains and advocates of religious freedom in the United States. He emphasized the need for policies that respect the rights of individuals from different faith backgrounds, particularly in environments like correctional facilities.

The case is one of several recent legal actions involving the treatment of Muslim individuals within the Prince George's County detention system. In a separate instance, the county faced scrutiny over policies that allegedly discriminated against Muslim detainees regarding religious practices, leading to another settlement earlier this year.

Bridges' story underscores ongoing discussions about religious discrimination and the importance of inclusive practices in public service positions. As the settlement unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the legal protections afforded under the First Amendment and the role of advocacy organizations in safeguarding those rights.

The final terms of the agreement are expected to be formalized in February, concluding a significant chapter in the fight for religious equality within government roles.

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