From March 23rd until April 21st, many students, staff, and families in the OCDSB community observed Ramadan – a period of prayer, fasting, charity-giving and self-accountability for Muslims all over the world. During Ramadan, Muslims gather at sunset for a meal called the Iftar, which means “fast-breaking.” At several schools, Muslim Student Associations organized Iftar events that welcomed students, families, staff, and community members.
The Woodroffe High School Muslim Student Association (MSA) collaborated to organize an Iftar with 160 attendees. Students worked with school staff and reached out to many local organizations and sponsors who graciously supported the event. The Iftar included a recitation of the Quran by student members of the MSA, a presentation about the significance of Ramadan and the Iftar, and a delicious meal. Attendees broke their fast with water and dates, followed by a hearty meal of rice, chicken, salad, and samosas, and a range of delectable desserts.
The MSA is grateful to the support of many community partners who contributed to making this event a success, including Al Rahma Mosque, Pathways, Metro, Loblaws, KYO BBQ Chicken, Baklava King, and the caterers for the event, Yummy Touch.
“The event was marked by an atmosphere of inclusivity and camaraderie, with lively discussions and a strong sense of unity pervading the occasion. As a first-time experience for many attendees, the event provided an opportunity for them to gain deeper insights into Ramadan and the Muslim community. The positive feedback from attendees highlighted their appreciation for the mouth-watering food, welcoming environment, and cultural exchange that characterized the event.” – Samah Suliman, Student Support Coordinator and MSA Staff Lead
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Ridgemont High School’s Muslim Student Association hosted its first ever Iftar Night this year. The students teamed up with Brookfield High School to organize this event, with the support of fellow students, staff, community members, and volunteers.
Guests were welcomed with a traditional greeting, receiving dates and water at the door. A guest speaker from the El Rahma Mosque presented on Ramadan customs and the significance of this collective feast, and Muslim students gathered for a time of prayer.
Volunteers then served a delicious buffet-style meal, which included many dishes that families and staff brought from home. The event also included a display of cultural items from different Middle Eastern and North African cultures, and a game of Kahoot for students. At the end of the Iftar, the MSA ensured that families took home food for Suhoor, the meal that is eaten before sunrise during Ramadan.
“To have friends and family come outside of school hours to showcase our hard work and create a safe cultural space for us Muslims to share our religion and teach those who are Muslims and non-Muslims was our main goal. … Many students were happy that they got to experience one of their holy nights of this month with their educators, friends, and family all together while others were very excited to demonstrate our Muslim culture. … Overall, the outcome of this event was far more than we ever expected. The love that we received from our peers, teachers, parents, and principals was like no other.” – Mawaada Y., Ridgemont student
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These events showcase how student leadership and collaboration helps to foster intercultural understanding and a sense of belonging. Both MSAs plan to continue this work with other student-led initiatives throughout the year.
