A recap of the holy month at the U of R and in the Queen City
Ramadan is more than just a month of fasting for Muslims all over the world. It is a time for reflection, community and spiritual growth. It is about learning the importance of self-discipline, curating healthy habits, focusing on your spirituality and fasting from everything that may negatively affect your well-being, including unkindness, hatred, gossip and everything that does not serve us.
Every year, millions of Muslims around the world participate in this sacred tradition, abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset. They focus on prayer and engage in acts of charity. Although fasting is the most visible aspect of Ramadan, the ethos of this month lies in the sense of community and togetherness that it fosters; it unites everyone, not just Muslims.
In our vibrant city of Regina, Ramadan has been in full swing. The Muslim community has come together in beautiful ways to make this month special, from daily Iftar (breaking of the fast) programs at local mosques to Suhoor (pre-dawn meal before fasting). Student organizations such as the University of Regina Muslim Students’ Association (UR MSA), have been working to ensure that everyone has access to meals on campus. The Lazy Owl, even introduced Iftar Boxes for $10.99.
One of the most beautiful traditions of Ramadan is the communal Iftar. While fasting in and of itself is an individual act of devotion, breaking the fast is something that brings people together. In Regina, mosques such as the Islamic Association of Saskatchewan (IAOS), Rahmah Centre and Baitul Mukarram opened their doors to provide Iftar for the community. The generosity of these mosques and their donors ensured that no one broke their fast alone. These gatherings aren’t just about eating, they are about strengthening the connection we have with our communities, meeting new people and sharing the blessings of Ramadan.
Ramadan is also a time for late-night prayers known as Taraweeh. For many Muslims, Ramadan leads to many all-nighters; it is the best time of year to be a night owl. In many parts of the world, Iftar parties and Suhoor parties are very common, especially for Muslim women.
For Muslim women in the West, it can be difficult to build community during Ramadan; many are focused on school or full-time jobs. Generously, the MBF Boxing Club has taken a unique approach to Ramadan by offering a post-Taraweeh gym and community space. This allows people to come together in a relaxed environment to train, play games, connect or just hang out. This blend of faith, fitness and community highlights how Ramadan is about prioritizing your well-being through holistic means. Suhoor, is another important part of Ramadan. Whilst it can be challenging to wake up before sunrise, doing it with a group makes it special. This year, UR MSA hosted separate Suhoor nights for men and women. Muslims within the university community came together in the early hours to share a meal, build friendships and support charitable causes. The Sisters’ and Brothers’ Suhoor Nights took place on March 21 and March 22 respectively at the Regina Huda School. The Suhoor Night this year was dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Syria. Islamic Relief Canada hosted their Annual Grand Iftar on March 23 at the Royal Hotel Regina in support of the people of Sudan.
Of course, there is no Ramadan without Eid. Eid-al-Fitr is a grand celebration for the end of Ramadan. . Those in need of proper attire for Eid were able to stop by Reyana Fashion & Home Décor. From abayas and thobbes to. hijabs, they had something for everyone.
In Regina t, a city far from the Muslim world, the spirit of this Ramadan remains alive and strong in shared Iftar events, late-night prayers, quiet moments of reflection and the joyous celebrations that follow. Whether you’re fasting or simply supporting those who are, Ramadan is a time to come together, to give and to grow as a community. In a world that feels divided by our differences, the holy month is the perfect opportunity to unite with each other.
