Iftar dinner at Hood

By Audrey Ze

Hood College hosted an Iftar dinner on March 4, bringing together students, staff and the community to celebrate diversity and shared traditions.

This event was not just a dinner, but a meaningful opportunity to learn about and partake in a significant cultural and religious practice observed by Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan.

Iftar is the evening meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan. Fasting, a cornerstone of Islamic practice, involves abstaining from food, drink and other physical needs from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is a spiritual practice that promotes self-discipline, gratitude and empathy for those less fortunate.

For many attendees unfamiliar with the practice, the evening offered a firsthand experience of the values and rituals that underpin Ramadan.

The dinner began at sunset at 6:09, breaking the fast with dates and water. The leader made a first call to prayer signifying the end of the fast and a second call to indicate the start of the prayer on the mats. Everyone removed their shoes before getting on the prayer mats, and women had to wear scarves.

On the menu were dishes reflecting diverse culinary traditions catered to the school courtesy of newly appointed president, Debbie Ricker.

April Boulton, dean of the Graduate School, who participated in the fast, said she was surprised at  how much she missed water.

The event was designed to showcase Hood College’s spirit of inclusivity, promoting understanding and appreciation for the diverse cultures within its community.

“I truly enjoy bringing people together as a community,” said International Students Director Amani Al-Dajane, who helped organize the event. “Through cultural and international events, I believe that I build bridges of understanding between different cultures and perspectives.”