Written for The Argo by Iman Ahmed

The Muslim Student Association (MSA) and the Multicultural Center collaborated in honor of the holiday, Eid al-Fitr. On April 3, the Eid Celebration was held in the Multicultural Center. 

The event was catered by Nizam’s. There were also various activity stations for attendees to enjoy: calligraphy was set up where students could express their names in Arabic script and were instructed by members of the Eastern Brush Painting Club. A henna station was also arranged for individuals to get their henna done by MSA members. 

The event began with opening remarks by Mashrur Pantho, Boys’ Religious Chair, who introduced Jovin Fernandez, the Director of the Multicultural Center. Fernandez shared new plans about the new Interfaith Center opening in the 2025-2026 academic year. She shared that students can now apply for positions to work in the Interfaith Center by emailing their resumes to the Multicultural Center, at Multiculturalcenter@Stockton.edu.

Following that, Najmah Laing, the Muslim Students’ Association’s Event Coordinator, spoke on how important it is to be able to coordinate and execute events like this one. She highlighted the need to create safe and empowering spaces where underrepresented populations’ perspectives may be heard, honored, and supported, especially in light of the current global conditions around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Finally, Khadija Vasquez, the Girls’ Religious Chair, delivered a touching presentation about Eid. She presented meaningful insights on the holiday’s religious and cultural significance, focusing on the themes of thankfulness, community, and renewal of spirituality. To make the discussion more engaging and personal, Vasquez urged the audience to share their Eid traditions and customs. This sparked a pleasant and interesting discourse, allowing everyone to connect via shared experiences and learn about the many ways Eid is celebrated by different families.

Many members of the audience shared different customs, such as beginning their day by joining the Eid prayer at the mosque and spending time with loved ones. A tradition that is celebrated in many cultures is giving Eidi, or Eid gifts, to the young children in their families. 

The event ended with dinner, as everyone engaged in conversations about their Eid celebration. Stations continued as members of the audience created art through calligraphy and henna.

“The people of Madinah had two days on which they would play. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, ‘Allah has given you something better than those two days: Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.’” — Abu Dawood