As a sign of support for Muslim students and to recognize diversity at Texas Wesleyan, President Frederick G. Slabach is fasting during the first full day of Ramadan, which is Tuesday, July 9. Ramadan continues until Aug. 7.

“I think it’s important to embrace other cultures and to show an understanding of their beliefs,” Slabach said. “We appreciate having an international population who gives us the opportunity to broaden our global knowledge.”

Mohammed Al-Shafei, founder and president of the Saudi Students Club at Texas Wesleyan, said the students are grateful for what the president is doing.

“The Saudi students and I appreciate President Slabach's kind gesture,” he said. “We greatly appreciate President Slabach's positive connections to their culture, and we would also like to thank him for everything he has done for us thus far and everything he continues to do.”

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims throughout the world observe the religious holiday with a month of fasting. The tradition is to eat a meal just before dawn and then break the fast after sunset. During the day, no food or liquid is permitted.

Throughout the month, Muslims around the world observe Ramadan as a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice.

As part of the purification, participants seek to strengthen ties with family and friends, refrain from gossip or other bad habits, and make peace with those who have wronged them.

Muslims believe that the Quran, the primary religious text of Islam, was revealed during the month of Ramadan.

Food Options during Ramadan

Dora’s is offering a to-go option that will allow students observing Ramadan to have food on hand for a nighttime meal. The meal includes a sandwich, chips, two pieces of pizza, fruit, salad and dessert. Students who do not want a sandwich can opt for two additional slices of pizza. Orders can be placed at the deli station between 5 and 6 p.m.