As December approaches, festive seasonal cheer commences. People begin to celebrate their traditions as the holidays, including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, draw near. While millions participate in these celebrations, many are still excluded, notably Muslims. Senior Aidan Smith speaks up about his feelings as a devoted Muslim during the festivities of the closing month of the year.
While the winter season is available for all, it doesn’t feel quite the same when you know what you’re missing out on. Smith is a minority in his friend group, as their December is accompanied by a 25-day countdown in their group chat. While the exclusion may not be purposeful, it’s no less hurtful. Often, he has to opt out of activities such as Secret Santa on account of his being Muslim. “I would love to receive a candy cane,” said Smith, “but not at the cost of going against my religion.”
In the Islamic faith, partaking in the practices of other religions is deemed incorrect and dishonorable. While attending mass and going Christmas caroling may be interpreted as different degrees of involvement, the premises are the same. Some Muslims waver regarding faithfulness regarding December, but Smith always attempts to stay true to his faith. “Everyone’s interpretations are different, but my steadfast beliefs don’t alter due to winter flurries and holidays,” said Smith.
The lack of a December holiday in Islam, however, is made up for by the scale of the celebration of Ramadan, which is a lunar holiday that moves slowly through the calendar from year to year. In 2024, it will be in March and April. Muslims observe Ramadan as a holy month of fasting, contemplation, and prayer in remembrance of Muhammad’s first revelations of the Quran. Muslims break their daily fasts by dining with family and friends, and Eid al-Fit, a three-day feast, marks the conclusion of Ramadan. Although Eid al-Fitr has no Santa equivalent, there are many other ways, from prayers to large gatherings, for celebrants to mark the occasion. “The fasting hurts my soul,” said Smith, “and I can get hangry, but the end is worth it.”
Supporting your Muslim friends during a time they feel ostracized can be as easy as taking simple steps like having non-religious-oriented winter activities. Some of Smith’s include ice skating, slurping on hot cocoa, and sledding. Remembering the faith of others and not sharing your coveted wish lists with them can be good practice in sensitivity. “Despite being asked to play Santa multiple times, I will continue to support my faith without any reindeer,” said Smith.
