Years of Effort Bear Fruit
As part of its vision and mission, PICNA has been exploring prospects of cooperation with the school system in South Carolina for the last few years. Various school districts have dedicated departments for diversity, equity and inclusion and PICNA has been gradually developing relations with them.
While it is important to provide basic information and awareness to the management about Islam and Muslims, it is even more critical to seek accommodation for Muslim students in these schools enabling them to fulfill their religious obligations while at school. These accommodations include facilities for obligatory prayers during school hours, excuse from rigorous exercise while fasting, Friday's congregational prayers and leave of absence on Muslim holidays.
In order to create awareness and train school management, PICNA has modified and expanded its signature Presentation titled 'Understanding Islam and Muslims' to include subjects like bullying, praying, fasting, modesty and clothing, dietary restrictions and Muslim holidays.
PICNA's first presentation was held in the Richland School District Two on January 25, 2024 wherein a number of principals, vice principals as well as administrators attended the event mostly virtually. attendees showed keen interest in the presentation and provided very positive feedback afterwards. A follow up meeting was later held recently, to discuss ways to allow students to participate in Friday's congregational prayers in Mosques and to include PICNA Presentation in future Conferences.
Another presentation was organized at the Lexington One School District on March 8, 2024 where all attendees were present in person. The program also included a display of posters and books relating to Muslim contribution to world civilization. The event concluded with an engaged Q & A session. Feedback received from various participants was very encouraging and worthy of the long struggle.
All in all, years of sustained struggle by PICNA have been blessed with an impactful breakthrough and have opened the doors for a mutually beneficial partnership with the School Districts of South Carolina.
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