Getting Closer

Interfaith work has unexpectedly become a huge part of my life. As I look back through my 21 years, I’ve realized how valuable it is. Without the help from our family friends who were not Muslim, my family and I may not be where we are today. The story of my family coming to the States will stay with me forever, as well as all of the help that we’ve received from loving, religiously diverse communities.

In 1990, my parents were given the option of coming to the States when Iraq began the invasion of Kuwait. With 24 hours to decide, my parents had to make a choice that would change the plans and paths for the entire family. Having our safety in mind, they chose to come to Minnesota and resettle. It was obviously a life changing experience, but with the help of friends from all over the community, our family adjusted with a bit more ease.

This story, this part of my life, is what drives me to do interfaith work. Working with others who are of different faith traditions has made me think critically about my daily life, what I believe, and why I believe it.

Not only are you participating in something that will leave a positive, hopeful impact on the community, you are working with others to eliminate the discrimination and stereotypes that may come with particular religious communities. You’re creating interactions with people whom you wouldn’t usually have the opportunity to encounter. Conversations spark about differences or similarities between beliefs.

Halfway through my sophomore year at Hamline, I realized what I was studying wasn’t what or who I was. Taking a risk, I decided to take all Social Justice themed classes. From there, I began volunteer work through class, in addition to seeking opportunities on my own.

I was also involved with Hamline’s weekly Multifaith Alliance and discussions on topics about faith. The group consisted of people from different faith backgrounds and beliefs, so you would always take something new with you as the conversation ended. I was an active member of the Muslim Student Association, where I was able to connect with my fellow students, Muslim and non-Muslim. Although I enjoyed being a part of the group, I was still eager to work with other organizations that consisted of people from diverse backgrounds.

Fast forward to last April, when I was introduced to the President’s Challenge. I was well into my involvement with Multifaith Alliance, along with some other interfaith projects, such as the Better Together campaign. My summer was then consumed with filling out the application and coming up with a sustainable, appealing plan that would work throughout my senior year.

We’re beginning the third month of the President’s Challenge, and so far it’s been incredible to see things happen. Between collecting coats for incoming refugee families and collecting food for Hamline’s magnet elementary school in St. Paul, I feel nothing but drive and excitement for what’s to come. As more people are aware of the types of interfaith events that we have around the Hamline community, the closer we get to living in an inclusive, religiously tolerant and accepting world. I think we’re getting closer to this world every day.

The content of this blog reflects the views of its author exclusively.