The Muslim Student Association raised more than $600 during their sixth annual Fast-a-Thon event last Thursday.
In observance of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, participants in the event are asked to go from sunrise to sunset without eating so that someone else can.
First-time fasters and lifelong devotees met at the Soroptomist House at sunset to discuss their accomplishments and listen to guest speaker Umar Abdul Hakim.
Hakim spoke briefly about the work of Humanitarian Day and the Coalition to Preserve Human Dignity, which works to feed and assist those on Skid Row.
“It is the steep path that leads to reward and success,” Hakim said about the devotional practices of fasting.
The path also includes fasting, mercy, forgiveness and the preservation of human dignity, bringing people together in serving humanity because, in essence, people are all made with intelligence and dignity, Hakim said.
The Humanitarian Day organization has 60,000 people working in more than 21 cities across the country. Proceeds from the event go to purchasing sanitary kits, blankets, clothing and food for needy people in the community.
“I thought this was a really good idea,” said Jeff Martinez, a senior communications major. “I thought it was a cool way to raise money and I feel good for accomplishing it.”
Hassan Elwan formally ended the day of fasting by presenting the sunset prayer, known as the call to prayers. Prayer rugs were provided inside the Soroptomist House for those who wished to complete their personal prayers of the day.
Almost 400 students signed up to fast for a variety of reasons.
Amy Kastanor, a freshman nursing major, tried fasting to help others, and also for personal reasons.
“I wanted to prove to myself that I had discipline,” Kastanor said.
Junior English major Tammy Allen also tried fasting to test her strength.
“I’m a foodie,” Allen said. “After a while I get a headache if I don’t eat. I actually broke down while I was writing a book report. Maybe I’ll have better luck next year.”
Brian Cruz, a junior business major, said he was glad he participated.
“One day of fasting to help someone else is worth it,” Cruz said.
Cristie Donhan, a senior cellular molecular biology major, and Madison Witte, a junior civil engineering major, decided to try fasting together.
“My friends inspired me to partake in the fast,” Donhan said. “It was challenging.”
Witte, Donhan’s friend, agreed with her about the challenge.
“I took Arabic in high school where I tried fasting then, but I haven’t fasted for two years,” Witte said. “I was going to get up and eat really early but it didn’t work out that way.”
After their long day of fasting, participants of the fast—successful or not—were treated to a buffet of traditional foods including rice, pita, hummus, chicken and kabob.
“This was a chance to open a door and explore another culture,” Martinez said. “The fasting really gives you time to think about your life.”