Florida International University Hosts Annual Interfaith Iftar to Celebrate Ramadan MIAMI, Florida — March 5, 2025
Guests gathered at the Graham Center at Florida International University (FIU) for the Jaffer Center for Muslim World Studies’ Annual Interfaith Iftar Dinner in observance of Ramadan. The event brought together students, faculty, religious leaders and community members to break the daily fast and learn more about Islamic traditions.
While many attendees came to observe the breaking of the fast after abstaining from food and drink since dawn, others attended to better understand a different faith. Some students also welcomed the opportunity for a shared evening meal during the week. Regardless of their reasons, the gathering reflected a spirit of unity and cultural exchange.
Understanding Ramadan: A Month of Reflection and Community
Ramadan, observed by nearly two billion Muslims worldwide, is considered Islam’s holiest month. It commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an and is marked by fasting, prayer, charity and spiritual reflection.
This year, Ramadan began on February 17 and concludes on March 19. While it is widely known for fasting from sunrise to sunset, the observance extends beyond physical restraint. The month encourages believers to reconnect with faith, strengthen family bonds and prioritize meaningful aspects of life.
Dr. Aisha Subhani, a guest speaker and former director of the Deen Intensive Foundation, described Ramadan as a time when community spaces become vibrant.
“Mosques and Islamic centers come alive,” she said. “It creates a bond during that month that may not exist throughout the rest of the year. It reminds us that we’re not meant to live in isolation, but to build community.”
A “Cosmic Pause” for Self-Reflection
Mohiaddin Mesbahi, director of FIU’s Jaffer Center for Muslim World Studies, referred to Ramadan as a “cosmic pause” — an opportunity to reflect on life’s direction and purpose.
Though iftar dinners are traditionally hosted in mosques or private homes, FIU’s annual event is intentionally multi-faith. It aims to educate non-Muslims about Ramadan while fostering dialogue across cultures and religions.
Subhani emphasized that learning about other traditions can reduce misunderstanding and division.
“The more you learn about other cultures and traditions, the more ignorance and hate begin to fade,” she said. “Ramadan is truly a month of light.”
The Tradition of Breaking the Fast
As sunset approached, plates of dates and fresh fruit were placed at each table. Attendees waited for the call to prayer before breaking their fast.
Mohamed Ghumrawi, assistant director of the Jaffer Center, led the Maghrib prayer just before sunset. Following tradition established by the Prophet Muhammad, many participants began their meal with a date. Dates are not only symbolic but also provide a natural source of energy after a day without food or drink.
The atmosphere in the room reflected diversity and inclusion. Families dressed in festive attire shared tables with local religious leaders. Exchange students enjoyed baklava alongside professors from FIU’s School of International and Public Affairs. The evening highlighted the university’s commitment to global engagement and cross-cultural dialogue.
Dr. Mohsin Jaffer encouraged students to embrace the opportunity to learn from one another.
“I hope our students, with the support of these centers, will truly understand all cultures, faiths and traditions and become the leaders our nation needs,” he said.
Shared Traditions Across Faiths
Speakers noted that fasting is not unique to Islam. Many religious traditions include periods of abstinence and reflection. This year, Ramadan overlaps with Lent, the Christian 40-day season of fasting and spiritual discipline leading up to Easter.
Those observing Lent often give up certain luxuries or habits while increasing acts of service and worship — demonstrating parallels between faith traditions.
A Message of Neighborliness and Unity
Imam Serjeel Ahmed of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of South Florida shared a personal reflection from this Ramadan: asking daily, “How can I be good to my neighbor?”
He suggested that such a simple question could help create a more peaceful world.
“The more I meet people from different parts of the world, the more I realize we’re all the same. We’re branches of the same tree, stemming from the same root,” Ahmed said.
For FIU student Pape Thioune of Senegal, Ramadan provides a welcome pause from a busy academic schedule.
“I love when everyone gets together to share food and thoughts,” he said. “The community is my favorite part.”
Bringing Light Through Community
FIU’s annual interfaith iftar demonstrated how Ramadan serves not only as a month of spiritual discipline, but also as a time to strengthen bonds across cultures and beliefs. Through shared meals and open dialogue, the evening reflected a broader message of unity, reflection and compassion.
