During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims throughout the world come together each evening to break their fast. The word “iftaar” is derived from the root f-t-r that can refer to breakfast or to the baking of unleavened bread. At its heart, iftaar is a communal activity; it is a time when people of all belief systems can come together to overcome their differences and break bread. When the Center for Middle Eastern Studies held its first Unity Iftaar in Lucy Stone Hall on October 18th, over two hundred people attended. Underneath the festive lights and other decorations were students who represented a wide range of countries and many different faiths.

Even though resources were limited and many people were quite eager to eat, all attendees shared what they had. Zain Ali, who is a Livingston College Senior, echoed these sentiments when he stated: “we sacrifice a whole day to give to God. We can understand what other people are going through who do not have enough food. It humbles you.”