Just before Spring Break, a number of groups gathered in front of the North Academic Center to celebrate student diversity with a focus on our Muslim population with the tenth annual Islamic Awareness Week. Volunteers from several student organizations provided free iced coffee and food while talking to other students about Islam.
The events aimed to help educate the student body. According to Rohima Ali, a 20 year old sociology major volunteer, “Our whole purpose is to clear any misconceptions people may have about Islam, especially given the media focus on jihad and ISIS. People have the wrong idea on Islam.”
Organizations included the Muslim Students Organization (MSO), Women in Islam, American Muslim Scientists and Muslims Giving Back. Representatives freely admitted that student and faculty reaction has been positive, with people taking time between classes to participate and listen to the volunteers.