Amira Abdullahi is a senior at South who celebrates the holy month of Ramadan. Abdullahi said, “I would describe [Ramadan] as the month of growth, healing, and blessings.”

Ramadan is an annual Islamic tradition that is taking place from February 28, 2025 to March 29, 2025 this year. The month consists of fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, reflection, and community. In Muslim practice, Ramadan is celebrated to feel closer to God and to improve self-control and empathy. Abdullahi stated, “[Ramadan] is a time where I disconnect from all of the distractions in this world like social media and truly be connected to God. This month is also the best time to do good things for other people, if that’s giving charity or just helping around in the community.”

When asked how the Ramadan schedule impacts her daily routine, senior Naimah Saahir said, “It honestly gives me more time throughout my day, it makes me more productive, and I have more time to do other things since I don’t have to worry about meals.” Saahir started fasting when she was eleven years old. She thought it was difficult at first, but with time, it became easier. 

Furthermore, Abdullahi said “[her] favorite part about this month is how connected the community becomes. The mosque becomes full with people from all over the world that bond with each other and make connections. Everyone is out talking with each other and eating good food. Every night of Ramadan the mosque has a group of people from different countries who cook their traditional food and bring it to the mosque for others to eat and try after they break their fast. So for example, the mosque would have African night, Indian night, Turkish night, etc. I love how the community just comes together to celebrate, and it’s nice to know we’re all experiencing this together. Another thing I love is being spiritually connected with myself and God.”