SHS Muslim Club Brings Community Together at Annual Iftar Dinner

On Thursday, March 12, the Scarsdale High School Muslim Youth Club hosted its annual Iftar Dinner, welcoming members of the community to gather in celebration of Ramadan. The event, held this year at Edgemont High School, brought together people of all ages and faiths to share in the experience of breaking the fast at sunset.

With a feast of delicious cultural dishes, the evening was marked not only by food, but by a strong sense of unity and inclusivity. Student officers of the Muslim Youth Club emphasized their commitment to opening the event to the wider Scarsdale community, creating a space where everyone could learn about and participate in this important tradition.

Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months in Islam. According to ING.org, it commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an and is observed by fasting from food and drink during daylight hours. The month is also a time for spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and acts of compassion and gratitude.

For many students, the Muslim Youth Club plays a vital role beyond organizing events. It provides a sense of belonging and identity. One club member shared that the organization gives her “a place that feels like home,” highlighting the importance of community during this sacred time.

After welcoming their guests and enjoying the food and comradery, the club’s current officers expressed their gratitude for the strong turnout. This year’s officers include: Laila El Moselhy, Shannen Hosman, Armita Ahmed,  Armaan Zaidi, Ayman Adams, Zara Lakhaney, and Alexander Andriopoulos.

“We are so happy for this huge turnout tonight,” said Ahmed. “We know how meaningful it is for all of us to come together during Ramadan, and this feeling is multiplied given the support from the greater community.”

Despite the evening’s success, organizers revealed that the event nearly did not happen this year. With the club’s founding members having graduated the previous year, the new leadership faced challenges in securing both a venue and an advisor.

Hosman explained that the club initially struggled to find a location at Scarsdale High School. In response, the Edgemont School District stepped in to help host the event. The officers extended their thanks to the district’s All Means All committee and advisor Dr. Amy Moselhi, as well as Superintendent Dr. Hamilton, Assistant Principal Ms. Joseph, and Ms. Ratcliffe for their support in making the joint Iftar possible.

El Moselhy added that finding an advisor for the dinner on short notice also proved to be a challenge and in her speech, she gave a special acknowledgement of gratitude to Coach Roane, for stepping in and helping guide the event.

The club also expressed appreciation for the presence of members of the Scarsdale Board of Education, including Mr. Rob Klein, Ms. Amber Yusuf, Ms. Colleen Brown, and Ms. Laura Liu, whose attendance underscored the district’s support for student-led cultural initiatives.

In the end, the evening stood as a testament to resilience, collaboration, and community spirit. What began as a challenging effort to keep a tradition alive became a powerful gathering that reflected the core values of Ramadan: reflection, generosity, and togetherness.