An Iftar for All

Two world religions united last week as the university celebrated its annual MSA/JSA iftar.  In Islam, iftar is the feast held at sunset each day during the month of Ramadan.

The Muslim and Jewish Student Associations, along with the Program Board, have been holding these feasts since 2002, following the terrorist attacks of 9/11. The dinner’s menu consisted of only Kosher and Halal food.

It was a holy time for all, with Rosh Hashanah in the beginning of next week, Eid al-fitr in the middle of next week, and Yom Kippur at the end of next week. Prayers were recited in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. President Knapp was present, and spoke at the event, mentioning his attendance at an iftar at the Embassy of Kuwait.

The overall theme of the event was, “Serving Others.” Both religious groups called for interfaith dialogues, and cooperative efforts to better the surrounding community. The event was not open to only GW students, however.

A student from American University stated that it opened her eyes, and how she was amazed when she saw that, despite the differences between the two, both religions were united for a feast. A senior citizen called the event, “Marvelous. Simply marvelous.”

The night was concluded with closing statements from both organization presidents, giving all attendees a mission to help better the world.

- Zahin Hasan