CMU dining provides meal options for students who celebrate Ramadan
Students and guests of the Central Michigan University Muslim Student Association make their way through a buffet line for Iftar, the first meal following the day's fast in Ramadan. The MSA hosted a Halaqa, a spiritual gathering for study, and Iftar Wednesday, March 5, in the Bovee University Center Rotunda. Additional celebrations are scheduled for March 19 and 26.
In an effort to meet the diverse dining needs of students, Central Michigan University Dining will provide students who celebrate Ramadan with meals outside of regular dining hall hours for the duration of the holiday.
According to Amy Probst, marketing director of CMU Dining, these meals will be available to all students celebrating Ramadan and will be distributed from the Woldt Greeter Stand in Dine & Connect. In exchange for either one meal swipe or $12.50, students will receive a Suhoor pack to take with them.
The available meals include both meat and vegan options, as well as a choice of beverages. For an additional meal swipe or payment, students are also able to eat in the dining hall and receive a Suhoor pack on their way out.
"Dining services have been providing meal options for fasting students for several years," Probst said. "This initiative started as a way to accommodate the dietary needs of Muslim students during Ramadan, ensuring they have access to appropriate meals before dawn and after sunset."
In addition to regularly providing meals for fasting, CMU Dining is set to celebrate the end of Ramadan, known as Eid al-Fitr, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on March 31,in Merrill Virtual Food Hall.
On April 1, the Eatery and Dine & Connect will be having station takeovers to further commemorate the holiday.
“Meeting the diverse dining needs of students is crucial for creating an inclusive and supportive campus environment,” Probst said. “It helps students feel valued and respected, promotes cultural understanding, and ensures that all students have access to meals that meet their dietary preferences and requirements.”
