By Nada Sewidan

Traditions may not be built on the same belief but they are often celebrated in the same way–

with families, friends, parties and community–as an expression of culture.

Amber Mahmood and other MSA members discussed celebrating Eid, an aspect of Islamic

culture, in America.

Eid is a Muslim holiday that occurs twice a year, once after Ramadan and once after Hajj

(pilgrimage) and lasts three days. Similar to other religious celebrations, the importance of Eid

lies in its history. The holiday includes sacrificing a goat or lamb as a reminder of Abraham’s

own sacrifice and love for God.

“The importance of Eid is gratefulness and having a remembrance of God,” Mahmood said. “It’s

a time for family to come and celebrate together.”

The small Eid is celebrated following Ramadan–a month of fasting from sun up until sun down.

The start of the Eid celebration is marked by the end of Ramadan month where families join one

another for a three day long feast.

“The month of fasting is about pushing your limits and testing yourself,” Mahmood said. “It’s

about trying to break bad habits and about self-improvement.”

“[It’s] a month of Soul Purification and a month to strengthen connections with God,” MSA

member, Kiren Khan, said.

Other characteristics of Eid celebrations include traditional clothing, parties, food and family

gatherings where gifts such as money, toys and clothing are handed out to family members.

Amber Mahmood and other MSA members are firm believers in integrating one’s own culture

and merging a piece of their own beliefs and traditions within the larger community. However,

some MSA members find that it’s sometimes difficult to maintain the tradition.

“When you celebrate Eid here it is different than celebrating in an Islamic Country,” MSA

member, Leena El-Maleh, said.

“It’s sometimes difficult coordinating work and school in order to maintain the tradition because

we don’t get it off as a holiday,” Mahmood said.

Although celebrating Eid in the United States is different than celebrating it in her country back

home, Mahmood talked about how vital community members are to the holiday.

“My favorite part of Eid is the community aspect and seeing everybody praying and spending

time with family,” she said. “We are so busy in our everyday lives so it’s nice to have a day to

get together and celebrate; it’s unifying.”

MSA believes it’s about co-existence within a larger community, a community that respects

each other’s beliefs and a community where individuals can celebrate their culture whether it’s

Christmas, Hanukah or Eid.

Mahmood said that although it is difficult at times, her family continues to maintain their religion

within their hearts, home and alongside the community.