UMSI Iftar
The doors will open at 7:00 PM, with delicious food served from 7:30 PM until 8:40 PM. This is a drop-in event, so you’re welcome to come and go as needed, and around 8:15 PM we’ll have an informal, voluntary share-out portion where participants can briefly share their experiences or thoughts.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, generosity, and togetherness. Iftar marks the moment when those fasting for Ramadan break their fast at sundown.
Our gathering is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to share traditions, spark dialogue, and celebrate the diverse cultures within the UMSI community. By honoring each other’s practices, we build understanding and strengthen our connections.
Whether you observe Ramadan or simply wish to learn more, UMSI community of all faiths and backgrounds (including loved ones and family) are welcome for an evening of conversation, traditional foods, and meaningful cultural exchange. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends, appreciate different perspectives, and find community among those who support these traditions.
Private rooms for prayer or reflection will be available throughout the event (some prayer mats provided, feel free to bring your own).
Registration is preferred, but not required. Families and loved ones are welcome! For more about religious, secular, and spiritual life at U-M, visit studentlife.umich.edu/religious-secular-and-spiritual-life.
Whether or not you can attend, folks in our UMSI community would love to learn about your traditions. Add to or view our online Ramadan discussion board.
Featured Speaker
Helmi Barzak
(
he/him
)
Administrative Assistant
UMSI Career Development Office
Helmi Barzak will lead an informal and optional share-out portion of the evening where he'll share his traditions and experiences around Ramadan and invite others to share as well. Helmi is originally from Colorado and has been in Ann Arbor for 2.5 years. He is currently the Admin Assistant for the Career Development Office at SI. A Palestinian-American, he grew up in a family-owned Middle Eastern restaurant during his formative years. He is married with two kids and likes to spend time watching or playing sports, gaming, or working on his project car. Feel free to start a conversation with him, he is very comfortable talking about his experience, good or bad, as Muslim in the United States, his travels to the Middle East, and his multi-ethnic heritage.
Registration is preferred, but not required.
Sponsoring UMSI Unit: Organizational Culture and Community
Contact: [email protected]