Ramadan is a holiday of Islamic significance where Muslims focus on discipline and spiritual devotion. Islam has deep roots in Palestinian culture and society, where about 93% of Palestinians are Muslim. Additionally, it is home to Al-Aqsa mosque where Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him) traveled from Al-Aqsa to heaven during the Night Journey.
In light of the holy month, Cleveland States’ Solidarity for Palestinian Human Rights (SPHR) and Muslim Student Association (MSA) held a collaborative women-only event. At the start of the event, guests enjoyed a small speech prepared by the Vice President of MSA on female empowerment and representations of women in Islam. She highlighted important women from the Quran like, Khadijah (RA), Um Salama (RA), and Nusayba bint Ka’ab (RA). Afterward, guests dispersed into mixed conversation and enjoyed games,and tote bag and canvas painting.
Around 8 o’clock, the Athan (Muslim call to prayer) was played and the women broke their fasts on tamr (dates) and water. In Islam, it is Sunnah (habitual practice modeled by the Prophet Muhammed PBUH) to break fast in this manner. After the women gathered for salah (prayer), they relished in a spread of Arabic cuisine catered by Kan Zaman.
As the night came to an end, laughter and chatter filled the room. “We are beyond grateful and appreciative to have the means to create an event like this for both communities to savor,” said SPHR board members.