Since 2021, Muslim Student Associations (MSA) across Fairfax County have held an annual iftar,a dinner in which Muslims break their fast. It occurs during Ramadan, a month for Muslims to enhance their spiritual state while refraining from eating and drinking during sunrise to sunset.
“The inter-MSA iftar has always been an opportunity for me to meet new people and foster connections not only with my peers from different schools but while also building my connection with God,” said junior Nadia Mansourian, vice president of McLean’s MSA.
This year’s iftar event was hosted by Fairfax High School on March 13 in collaboration with McLean, Woodson, Madison, Langley and Robinson MSA. This dinner allowed young Muslims from across the county to come together and create bonds during this holy month.
“I am beyond grateful for how beautifully Fairfax’s fourth annual iftar came together. It was a night filled with warmth and community,” said Zineb Elhayani, Fairfax’s MSA president. “Being a part of this group, especially as president, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”
This year, a photo booth stand with props was offered where students were able to take a Polaroid picture to commemorate this event in years to come. Henna—a reddish all natural paste to paint traditional designs commonly on hands—was also offered, as it is a common tradition among girls during Ramadan and Eid festivities.
“I really enjoyed the event because it gathered a lot of people from different parts of the community and I got to see old faces as well,” said Hareer Rehman, a student henna artist. “I had fun doing henna since everyone was excited to be there and I had an overall good experience.”
The importance of these iftars is that they allow Muslims throughout the FCPS community to share the spiritual moment of breaking their fast amongst each other.
“The iftar was a reminder of faith, unity and community,” freshman Adil Shaik said. “Seeing that students volunteered or even just came to the potluck was truly inspiring.”
Over 300 people from seven MSAs attended this year’s event, which also featured a guest speaker from the Palestinian Youth Movement’s local DMV chapter .
“Attending the high school iftar was truly a heartwarming and inspiring experience. It was incredible to see students from different schools within FCPS come together, breaking fast and sharing their stories,” said Kheira Bekkadja, an Edison alumni. “What stood out most was the strength and dedication of the high schoolers, who not only organized such a meaningful event but also brought together Muslims and non-Muslims alike in one room.”
MSAs have flourished as a safe space for Muslims in tumultuous and politically charged years. The organization’s leaders hope they can continue their momentum and develop new traditions that Muslims across the county can participate in.
“While the thought of leaving is bittersweet, I have no doubt that our MSA will continue to thrive, providing a space where future Muslim students can grow, connect and create lasting memories like I have,” Elhayani said. “I can’t wait to see how much it will continue to flourish in years to come.”
