The recent community Iftar event was one of the first Islamic/Middle Eastern cultural events at Auburn Riverside High School!
Our students at this school come from so many different backgrounds, and as the Muslim host of this event, my hope was that this event would give a better perspective of my own culture.
The Multi-Cultural Club hosted this event, which aimed to give everyone a representation of how we Muslims do it and how enjoyable the holy month of Ramadan is.
Nearly 60 attendees came together for the event in March, which included multicultural fare that brought everyone together.
There were all types of Middle Eastern, Asian, south Asian and American foods that got a great amount of praise.
“There were many different types of foods that I tried, and I liked them,” said sophomore Sara Abdellah.
In addition, another guest, sophomore Gracine Elice said, “I didn’t expect it to be that fun, I enjoyed it a lot and I’d definitely come again.”
My sister, Talwasa Sikandar, an 8th grader from West Auburn, also helped in setting up.
“I actually liked it a lot and everyone else that wasn’t even Muslim enjoyed it too,” said Talwasa. “They didn’t feel left out.”
There were people from all backgrounds who enjoyed learning about another culture.
I feel like there is a lot of propaganda and false information spread about my culture. By holding small cultural events like this where people get a better understanding of what Islam truly is about, then we can help defeat those negative assumptions.
As a Muslim, not only do I focus on Islam but also on humanity. By bringing people together and combining cultures I feel like it’s an honorable thing to do. I plan on doing many more events like this!
It was my first time hosting a community event. Although it was quite stressful getting everything done and making sure that everyone was pleased, I’m glad that I hosted this event and I loved every bit of setting it up.
We welcomed many special guests, including Auburn City Council Member Hanan Amir from and honorable Judge Jarmon.
Thank you to everyone who came and enjoyed the beautiful evening and Inshallah (God willing) I hope to see everyone at the next event!
Shaista Sikandar is a sophomore at Auburn Riverside High School.
