Wylie Library Showcases Ramadan Display, Fostering Cultural Understanding
As Ramadan enters its final week, the Smith Public Library in Wylie, Texas, has become a beacon of cultural exchange and education with its dedicated Ramadan display. The exhibit, which includes books, decorations, and information about the holy month, aims to introduce the community to the significance of Ramadan for Muslims worldwide. This initiative, now in its second year, reflects the library's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
A Window into Ramadan
The display features various items that symbolize the month of Ramadan, including crescent moons, miniature mosques, and "Happy Ramadan" signs. These decorations are not just for show; they represent the festive atmosphere many Muslim families create at home during this sacred time.
"We fast from dawn to sunset for those who can, and by doing so, we're able to practice more self-discipline, increase our spiritual reflection, draw closer to God, and focus on charity and giving back," explained Nadaa Hassan, a children's book author and community advocate, whose book "Ramadan Around the World" is prominently displayed.
Community Engagement and Education
Sarah Idris, the organizer of the Ramadan display and story time, emphasized the importance of representation and inclusion. "It's a way to introduce our community to what Ramadan means to Muslims worldwide, and it's also a way to allow our kids to be seen, for them to be represented and get excited when they come to their local library," she said.
The library's efforts extend beyond the display. Idris organized a story time, during which dozens of children and families gathered to listen to Hassan read her book, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride among young Muslim Americans.
"Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools of communication, and for many children, it's a door into a world beyond their own," Hassan noted. "For American Muslim children specifically, seeing themselves represented not just in the books they are reading but also in the spaces they are part of is very important and adds a lot to their character and self-confidence".
The Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is when Muslims fast from dawn until dusk, pray, give charity, and spend time with loved ones. The display at the Smith Public Library includes a copy of the Quran, the holy book Muslims believe was revealed during this month.
"So for us, that holds great significance. That's one of the acts of worship that we focus on during the holy month, reading the Book, and so we have that on display as well," Idris explained.
Building Bridges Through Understanding
The library's initiative has been met with enthusiasm from both the Muslim community and the broader Wylie community. Ofilia Barrera, the director of the Smith Public Library, expressed the library's commitment to representing all community members.
"We feel like it's crucial to allow everyone in our community to be represented and express themselves, and we're happy that we were able to do that for them," Barrera said.
The Ramadan showcase allows visitors to expand their knowledge and foster curiosity about different cultures. "I hope that the community just recognizes that we have everybody here in our community. There's a little bit of everything, which makes us so special," Barrera added.
Community Celebrations and Contributions
Beyond the library's efforts, local Muslims in Wylie have been actively celebrating Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of the fasting month. Nooria Hadi, a Wylie resident, described how Muslims gather at a local event venue for community iftars, showcasing the diversity of the Muslim community in the area.
"It's important to bring together people from different countries to share meals, culture, traditions, and experiences," Hadi said. "Having contact with people from different backgrounds, celebrating differences, not only tolerating it, but also interacting with people with diverse practice styles, life experiences, and cultures promotes empathy and compassion instead of judgment".
During Eid al-Fitr, Muslims gather at local mosques to say a prayer known as a takbeer and consume something sweet, such as a date. They also make a zakat al fitr, a contribution to the poor, and elders often give money and gifts to children.
Future Perspective
The Smith Public Library's Ramadan display and the community's celebrations highlight Muslim culture's growing visibility and integration in North Texas. As Ramadan 2025 draws close, these efforts underscore the importance of cultural understanding and community cohesion.
The library's initiative, combined with local events, provides a platform for dialogue and education, fostering a sense of belonging for Muslim children and promoting empathy and understanding among all community members. As the Muslim population in Texas continues to grow, such initiatives are likely to become more common, enriching the region's cultural tapestry and promoting a more inclusive society.