ASHFAQUE SYED
CHICAGO: Students from the Al-Falah Academy Weekend School organized the third annual “Muslims Around the World Fair” on December 14 at the Islamic Center of Naperville, a south side Chicago suburb
“The event was a step in the direction to celebrate Muslim culture, across the globe, considering the fact that while world’s 1.6 billion Muslims are united in their belief in God and Prophet Muhammad, their cultures vary from country to country”, said Kashif Fakhruddin, principal of Al Falah Academy , one of the organizers of the event. He added that the aim was also to create a wider awareness in this area which is a pressing need since t 70 per cent of the American public is not familiar about it.
The students, at different booths, presented their research on the ways Muslims from 28 countries around the globe live, eat, and worship. In addition, they not only served to the visitors tasty snacks and treats from the respective countries but also enlightened them about the countries they have studied.
Dressed in traditional, unique, and colorful attires of various countries, the students created a captivating spell and converted the venue into a mini world. There was a carnival-like atmosphere all around the venue.
“Food brings the community together. We had a fun-filled day with new snacks and treats to try,” said Senator Laura Ellman, one of the guests at the event, adding that learning about the culture of Muslims across the globe was an icing on the cake.
“It is through education and appreciation of our unity in diversity that we can become more strengthened and united as a community and thereby stronger in our pursuit of happiness,” said Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico.
The Muslims Around the World Fair was greatly instrumental not only in understanding the beautiful cultures, foods, and traditions of Muslims from diverse countries but also in creating wider awareness about them among people living in the United States of America, the participating students opined.
Among those who attended the event Rep. Lauren Underwood, Congressman Bill Foster, Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico, Naperville City Council’s Paul Hinterlong, Theresa Sullivan, Pat Kelly, Consul General of Pakistan Javeed Umrani, and Vice Consul of Turkey Enver Hüsmenoğlu.
