On Oct. 15, the Muslim Student Association (MSA) held the “Understanding through Unity” open dialogue event in Sally 113, bringing the community together to discuss misconceptions about Islam in modern-day society and to consider how Islamophobia affects the community.
This event featured Tariq Ameer, Imam, the Muslim Chaplain and director of Muslim Student Life at Lehigh University, whose work emphasizes spreading the truth of Islam.
Ameer specializes in Islamic studies and, through his work, seeks to correct Islamophobic misconceptions in modern society. He explains that through general knowledge of Islamic values and principles, understanding can be built to acknowledge Islam as a religion of peace, which emphasizes free will and compassion.
Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October 2023, MSA has been an open advocate for Palestine and Muslims worldwide through events such as panels, protests, and collaborations with other MSAs, including those at Lehigh, Northampton Community College, and DeSales.
Amidst their advocacy, the community has expressed its struggles in fostering basic outreach and support. “There’s only so much you can do,” MSA President Fatima Adnane said. “I’m hopeful, but I’m going to be realistic.”
Her concern centered on the normalization and the extent of Islamophobia that Muslim and Arab communities face, despite every religion having its extremist branches. Students and staff shared how these experiences affect their lives and how isolating it can be to seek communal support.
Adnane confirmed the community’s uncertainty about the university’s support during this time. Despite the rise in Islamophobia since the beginning of the conflict, Muslims at Moravian feel they have been left out of the conversation.
That sparked conversation about how to combat Islamophobia when it occurs, and why building community is the best way to do so. Ameer encouraged Muslims to stay true to their character and to take these experiences as chances to teach others through representation.
Dr. Akbar Keshodkar, professor of anthropology at Moravian, asked attendants to acknowledge the historical context of extremism. He stressed how the demonization of Islam over time has progressed throughout the Arab region, and advised the community to heed larger forces contributing to Islamophobia.
Other students and faculty discussed the roles of non-Muslim community members in building community, acknowledging that solidarity requires active activism from allies. The message across the dialogue returned to a common theme: if you see something, say something.
While expectations of the social climate changing were low, MSA reinforced its commitment to creating a safe spot inclusive of Muslim, non-Muslims, and Arab students and faculty on campus.
Muslim and Arab students seeking support can contact Moravian’s MSA via email at [email protected] or Moravian University Chaplain Charlie McDonald of the Office of Spirituality and Inclusion at [email protected]. MyLehigh Valley Youth Organization is an off-campus resource that can be reached through [email protected].
