Arabic Club members learned about Ramadan’s cultural impact on Arab communities during its meeting on March 6.

Junior and Vice President Sayf Elkousy said Ramadan is a major part of being Muslim, so it’s important to recognize its significance.

“It’s important to let [club members] who don’t practice Islam understand the purpose behind it and understand what people around them are going through, even if you don’t practice the religion,” Elkousy said.

Unless they’re unable to due to illness, pregnancy or travel, practicing Ramadan is a requirement for Muslims as it’s one of the pillars of Islam. It consists of fasting, charity and reading the Quran. For junior and member Laila Hakki, the practice allows her to reflect on life.

“Practicing Ramadan has allowed me to increase my discipline, appreciate the life I have been provided and [have] a sense of gratitude,” Hakki said.

Club members learned how different nations in the Arab world celebrate Ramadan. In Saudi Arabia, people travel to do Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage, in Mecca and Medina. Egypt is known for its streets decorated with vibrant lanterns.

“I was able to grow my knowledge about how various countries celebrate Ramadan and the differences between how Ramadan is celebrated in the U.S. versus countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt where schedules are adjusted and a greater amount of festivities occur,” Hakki said.

Elkousy explained that one of the biggest differences in celebrating Ramadan in America is that people have a feast almost every day.

“You spend a lot more time with your family,” Elkousy said. “There’s also just the change in the schedule. All activities go from being during the day to at night.”

Bringing attention to Ramadan is important to the Bellaire community, according to Elkousy.

“Ramadan is such an important part of Islam that it’s nice to spread awareness as to why we practice it, what it is and what’s involved with the celebration,” Elkousy said.

To learn more about the Arabic Club, join its Remind @arabiclub1.