Addison Trail Muslim Student Association hosts the school’s first Fast-A-Thon to recognize Ramadan

On April 4, Addison Trail’s Muslim Student Association (MSA) hosted the school’s first Fast-A-Thon to educate staff members about Ramadan.

According to www.bbc.com/news/explainers-56695447, “Ramadan is the Arabic name for the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. It is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims and is marked by a period of fasting, considered one of the Five Pillars of Islam.” Ramadan falls on a different date every year, due to the cycles of the moon. This year, it started on March 22 and will finish on April 21.

Twenty people attended the event at Addison Trail, where they enjoyed an iftar meal (a fast-breaking meal eaten by Muslims during the month of Ramadan). The dinner included traditional items such as humus, salads, lamb, chicken, grape leaves, pita, rice and desserts. Following Muslim tradition, participants broke the fast by eating a date and having a drink of water. Addison Trail juniors Soha Siddiqui and Logain Nazzal spoke with the group and reflected on the significance of Ramadan.

The MSA is open to all Addison Trail students and meets monthly to discuss news, traditions and current trends throughout the Muslim world. The group also helps to educate students and staff about the Muslim community. For questions or more information, contact Addison Trail Guidance Counselor and MSA adviser Shane Cole at scole@dupage88.net or 630-628-3322.