FIRST PERSON | Ramadan begins Aug. 1 and so begins my one-month of remembering my heritage in southwest Iran. In my family, we do not celebrate Ramadan in America in the same way as someone who is devout or conservative. Just like a non-Christian who celebrates Christmas, my family found that Ramadan was a fun time for including non-Muslim American friends in learning more about our culture.
In this list is a great set of conversation starters that can help you break the ice on the subjects of Islam and Ramadan. Keep in mind that most Muslim Americans, like me, don't know if someone is interested in this side of their heritage. If you want to politely invite yourself to some of the most happening times of year in the American Muslim calendar, then here is how to do it.
A time to giving back to the homeless
In California, I regularly met Iranians who did not actually celebrate Ramadan. However, during the month of Ramadan, they would volunteer at a homeless shelter independently of any mosque or religious organization. While they were not celebrating Ramadan in its entirety, they were doing an important aspect of Ramadan. That vital tenant is to give back time and money to those less fortunate than you (zakat).
Tip: As a fun activity, you can join your friend in working at a local soup kitchen during Ramadan.
The ongoing shopping
Of course, when you are still getting to know about Islam, it can be very difficult to know where to jump in on your new Muslim friend's social scene as a non-Muslim. For this reason, you will be delighted to know that there are many days of shopping for Muslims with families during Ramadan. Naturally, your Muslim friend would be delighted to have you participate in this aspect of their holiday festivities.
Tip: Always take extra money with you during Ramadan-related shopping trips. In some cases, Muslims like to buy special Ramadan items from ethnic stores. These stores often have once a year Ramadan specials that will leave you amazed.
Pan Muslim mosques mean non-Muslim invites
When your local American mosque contains Muslims from every corner of the globe, Muslims show up at the mosque during Ramadan for a second reason. Mainly, the food and cultural displays that are centered on Ramadan feasts in America after sundown are theater and gourmet quality. As a non-Muslim, these American mosques breaking the fast parties are the perfect way to make your introduction to the community.
Tip: As a non-Muslim, you will most likely not be asked to change the way you look to enter a mosque during a Ramadan breaking the fast party.
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