Intensive English Program students to hold Ramadan event July 16

The international students of Western Washington University’s Intensive English Program will play host to a Ramadan event to share the breaking of fast from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, in College Hall Room 137.

This event is free and open to Western students and members of the community interested in sharing or learning about the Muslim tradition of Ramadan. Attendees are encouraged to bring a food dish to share for the potluck meal.

“It’s a pleasure to celebrate this event with our students,” said Maggie Barklind, director of Extended Education Student and Course Services. “It is a great opportunity for the Western and Bellingham communities to ask questions, learn about other cultures, and share in this exciting traditional experience.”

Ramadan signifies a mandatory fasting season for adult Muslims in which they are required to abstain from foods, drinks and other physical activities during the daylight hours. Ramadan is intended to be a time for cleansing the soul, focusing attention on God and emphasizing self-sacrifice. Eating begins after sunset, hence, Ramadan can be perceived as a period when Muslims are educated on matters of spirituality, patience and humility. Immediately after Ramadan, the celebrations begin for the holiday of Eid Al-Fitr, which is one of the biggest two holidays for Muslims. This month highlights traditional customs celebrated around the world and brings a special feeling of closeness.

The Intensive English Program at WWU in Bellingham offers a combination of core and support classes for students and professionals seeking to strengthen their use of the English language. The program aims to welcome all international applicants, as well create opportunities for Western’s community to share in cultural awareness. IEP currently has 55 international students from over 10 countries, including Taiwan, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Venezuela, South Korea, China, Thailand, Kuwait, and Japan.

Western Washington University is an equal opportunity institution. For disability accommodation, please contact Extended Education, 360-650-3308 or ExtendedEd@wwu.edu.

For more information on Western’s Intensive English Program, please visit http://www.wwu.edu/iep, email iep@wwu.edu, or call (360) 650-3308.