East African Magnet School Hosts Iftar for Staff and Volunteers

East African Magnet School held an Iftar (fast breaking) meal during Ramadan.

Communal Iftar has become a common tradition during Ramadan. Many organizations use the opportunity to strengthen communal ties, interfaith relations, and raise funds for worthy causes. The Minnesota Council of Churches has been coordinating with local mosques, the “Taking Heart Iftars” for over two decades. The State of Minnesota held an annual Iftar, hosted by elected officials and the Minnesota National Guard.

The East African Magnet School community held Iftar for staff and volunteers to express gratitude and break bread together. Both staff and volunteers were well represented – more than 150 people attended. Strengthening our bonds and connecting with new friends is a precious way to fill up our social capital. The beautiful human interactions at the dinner table were awesome. Holy Land catering did not disappoint with well-stuffed meal choice boxes.

Here are some interactions during the night:

• Several volunteers expressed how they were moved by the “thank you” messages they received from students.
• Ms. Taylor’s partner is studying Arabic at the University of Minnesota. He had a fun opportunity to practice his Arabic skills with Dr. Alawi Adam, a retired Prof. of Arabic from King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• Ms. Ubah Jama’s ninth grade son led the men in prayers at sunset Iftar time.