Ramadan Spirit Prevails in UK Campus

CAIRO, October 27, 2005 (IslamOnline.net) – Muslim students in Britain will hold a free iftar (fast-breaking) banquet with their non-Muslim colleagues in an effort to highlight the merciful teachings of Islam and the spiritual aspects of the holy fasting month of Ramadan.

Muslim and non-Muslim students of the University of Kentucky, United Kingdom, come together Thursday, October 27, on the iftar banquet organized by the UK Muslim Student Association, according to the Kentucky university student publication.

"It's a very spiritual, religious and holy month where friends and family come together each evening to break fast and celebrate life," said Roula Allouch, a third-year law student of the Kentucky University.

The Muslim student stressed that the event, co-sponsored by the UK's Office for Multicultural Affairs, is meant for helping non-Muslims know about Islam and the dawn-to-dusk fasting month.

"We're trying to put a face to the religion," she said.

"People read about Islam all the time, but when they see a Muslim man or woman speaking eloquently and openly, and laughing and having fun, it serves to eradicate any stereotypes they might have."

Important Event

University students said the event is very important for all British citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.

"It's important to be exposed to many different aspects of human experience and other cultures," Cristalle Maraman, a third-year law student, told the Kentucky university student publication.

"An event like this makes something you've heard and read about more tangible," she added.

Boushra Aghil, a secondary education junior, agreed, expressing hope that the event will broaden people's horizons and promote diversity.

The Muslim Student Association is one of the most diverse organizations on campus with people of all ethnicities.

"At a time when there's not a lot of diversity on this campus, this event is an opportunity to come experience a small piece of what diversity UK offers," Allouch said.

British Muslims started fasting on October 4.

During Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain during daylight hours from food, drink, smoking and sex.