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For many US Muslims, iftar is an occasion for activism, raising awareness about Islam and Muslims and civil liberties. (Google) |
CAIRO — In pre-9/11 America, iftar was a go-together between Muslim family members and relatives sharing a big feast.
Now, iftar means an occasion for activism, raising awareness about Islam and Muslims and civil liberties.
"It's not just about the food," 28-year-old Mohamed Sayed, of Egyptian origin, told the Washington Post on Saturday, September 27.
"It's also about being part of the community."
Sayed spends iftar with his book club, "success strategies" meetings for young professionals.
His experience shows how the purpose of iftar is changing for many American Muslims.
Traditionally, Muslims host iftar for family members, with some in smaller Muslim communities celebrating the occasion just a few times a week.
But since the 9/11 attacks, many American Muslims have used the iftar for activism, organizing banquets around Islam-related films or lectures or interfaith events.
"I want to focus on understanding my religion, not so much on food and culture," said Melissa Robinson, 27, a pharmacy student who reverted to Islam in 2003.
"It's not healthy, it's too much food, and Islam says to honor your body," said Robinson, who organizes iftars around a range of activities, from interfaith storytelling to an event to support Iraqi refugees in the area.
In Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset.
Muslims dedicate their time during the holy month to become closer to Allah through prayer, self-restraint and good deeds.
Liberties
Taleb Salhab attends iftars to discuss civil liberties in post 9/11 America.
This week, Salhab, a father of two, attended a "film-iftar" with 200 people, where they watched "The Visitor," which touches on issues of civil liberties and immigration.
"People would never do things like this growing up," said the 39-year-old, of Saudi origin.
"My family would discuss a wide range of issues, but we want to use the holiday to spark a conversation about issues that affect our whole community," he said.
Muslims in the US, estimated between six to seven million, have become sensitized to the erosion of their civil rights since the 9/11 attacks.
Many Muslims have complained of facing discrimination and stereotypes because of their Islamic attires or identities.
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