The recent Family Iftar, hosted by the PHS Muslim Student Association (MSA), brought together Muslim students and their families both inside and outside of PHS. The MSA’s annual iftar is a crucial step towards fostering community and understanding within the school. Held on March 12 in the Anthony Cafeteria, the event provided a space for students, staff, and families alike to come together and celebrate the Ramadan fast break together.

“This iftar goes beyond just sharing a meal,” noted Umar Khan, who is currently the vice president of the MSA brothers. “It represents a step towards building a more inclusive school community. By holding this iftar during [the Muslim holy month of] Ramadan, our school acknowledges and respects the religious and cultural practices of Muslim students, which helps create a sense of belonging.”

The impact of events like this extends beyond the night of fun and activities itself. The MSA’s Family Iftar was a reflection of their effort to provide Muslim students at PHS with a sense of visibility while also giving exposure to other attendees, who might be new to these types of opportunities and engagement.

The MSA has grown tremendously over the past few years, evolving from a small group of practicing students to a vibrant and active part of the school community that proudly represents its faith and values. Events like the Annual Family Iftar have played a significant role in that growth. “These events give MSA a chance to share values of community, compassion, and create a safe space for Muslim students and families to feel seen, supported, and proud of who they are,” Khan added.

As the MSA continues to expand, support from the school is essential in ensuring that events like this remain successful. “I think the school should continue to provide MSA with space, resources, and encouragement to bring ideas to life,” Ms. Shallan, advisor of the MSA emphasized, while the MSA president, Maaz Motiwala, explained how he “hopes that it strengthens the community and shows the Beauty of Islam.”

The formal decor and the fun activities such as henna, face paint, photo booths, and games were a “rewarding experience” as Maryum Motiwala, the sister’s vice president, recounts. “The event brought a lot of people together – students, community members, and teachers.” Another attendee and active member of the MSA, Shada Addwebi, admires how the iftar was “nothing short” of representing the joy and gathering that Muslims gain by breaking their fast together. “The iftar was not only a means of celebrating fasting but it was celebrating community, love, and brotherhood.”

Throughout the next few years, the MSA plans to implement more interaction and organization to ensure that they maintain their well-planned Family Iftar. The MSA continues to uplift both their own values and advocate for those around them through inclusivity, unity, and kindness; with their meetings featuring food, games, and valuable lessons. If you want to learn more about the MSA and their impact, come to room 147 in Patton on Friday afternoons – everyone is welcome!