Dana Ajeen is a freshman at UNCW, and she is also a Muslim woman.
"Walking around campus I can count the girls who wear a scarf on their head as well," Ajeen said.
UNCW is at 17 percent diversity and Muslim students make up an even smaller percentage of that. Misconceptions often accompany the Islamic faith, but the leaders of the Muslim Student Association at UNCW, are hoping that won't be the case on their campus.
They are holding a dinner to honor Eid al-Adha, a holiday that marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, an important experience for Muslims all over the world. More than trying different cuisine, the students are hoping for better understanding through simply talking to someone who is Muslim.
"Noticing there is a difference isn't the issue. I don't mind when people come ask me, 'Oh what's that on your head?' or 'Is it hot under there?'" Ajeen explained."I think it's what we do after we notice the difference and how we react to the differences. So I think I would like to see that when people do ask questions they have an open mind and want to hear the answers."
For Waleed Jarred, it's important to not judge from what we say, or believe we know. His goal is that will carry over to his classmates.
"To make campus as comfortable as possible for anyone from any ideology, to promote that it doesn't matter how you look or anything. Not to judge, but rather get to know them" Jarred said.
Tonight's dinner is just the beginning of their efforts to create better cultural understanding.
Add new comment