Muslims and non-Muslims gathered in the cafeteria on Wednesday, March 5 to celebrate Iftar, a simple meal enjoyed by millions of Muslims around the world to break their fast during the month of Ramadan.
The community dinner began with a small speech from Mr. Jaenicke, and was followed by a few guest speakers from Muslim Sisters of Staten Island, who shared some uplifting and inspiring words, as well as a recitation from the Quran. As tradition, everyone broke their fast with water and dates. A full meal was then served, including some Mediterranean dishes composed of rice and chicken, and also some Albanian petë.
The Muslim Student Association facilitator, Ms. Nermin, highlighted her reasons for helping organize the Iftar gathering. “I wanted to show that the Muslim community is a big part of our neighborhood,” she said. “I believe that we need to be active in the community as much as possible so we can prove that we as Muslims are as important and kind as everyone else.”
Aya Khoukhou, a student from Port Richmond commented, “I thought this dinner was very good and delicious with the amount of variety from different cultures, and the people serving and organizing this event were very friendly.” She additionally said, “Curtis did an amazing job.”
Co-host and guest speaker Jamilah LaSalle shared her thoughts on how people could continue to support each other in Ramadan. She explained, “The best way to support one another during this month is to maintain the peace, because part of fasting is not just abstaining from food, it’s also abstaining from being angry and having ill thoughts. So, people who aren’t fasting can show their support for Muslims by also refraining from things that can ruin their character.”
The host, Safiyyah Abdul-Qawiyy, addressed the importance of having gatherings like these, also illustrating, “I believe that we as a society have to work with each other. For me, I try to do my part in this community by bringing Iftar events just like this one to other communities and schools every year.”
This remarkable occasion was wrapped up with a Maghrib Salaat, also known as the prayer following the breaking of one’s fast.
