Students passing by Brower Commons this week may have wondered what is inside the tent set up by the Islamic Society at the University for Islam Awareness Week.
Upon entrance, tables set up with informational pamphlets and poster boards explaining various aspects of the religion are available for guests to look through. Student volunteers are also on hand to answer any questions visitors may have.
Visitors have been especially interested in the role of women within Islam, explained Nadia Sheikh, event coordinator for ISRU and a University College sophomore.
"We believe we are equal with our men in the eyes of God. We are on the same wavelength," she explained.
Other common misconceptions that the organization aims to dispel include Islam's view on war.
"It became clear in the post 9/11 global climate that we have to be more proactive in showing the world that we aren't out to get them," said Amr Gharib, President of ISRU and Rutgers College senior.
The society, one of many student organizations nationwide under the umbrella of Muslim Students Association, sponsored Islam Awareness Week in an effort to "unveil the true essence of Islam," explained Sheikh.
The concept of Islam Awareness Week came about approximately two years ago, making this year the third year the event has been held at the University.
"There is a wall of misunderstanding, ignorance and miscommunication up right now about Islam," Gharib said. "We are tearing down that wall and rebuilding it with a foundation of understanding, cooperation and knowledge."
Both Sheikh and Gharib agreed in saying University students have been very accepting of the presence of the awareness week on campus, and many students have come through the tent to gain a better understanding of the religion.
"Many Rutgers students appreciate the effort that ISRU has put into this event," Gharib stated, citing that approximately 350 students attended last years closing event.
"I think that it is really cool and it looks really nice. It is teaching students about the religion and is clearing up misconceptions people probably have," said Sandra Haddad, a Rutgers College first-year.
The tent has been open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. this week, and there has also been a main event every night with free catered food available. The week's events will be topped off tonight when Khalid Yasin, the executive director of the Islamic Teaching Institute, will come to the University to deliver a speech titled, "The Purpose of Life: Bettering Society."
Islam Awareness Week at the University was a collective effort of approximately 100 students.
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