April is Arab American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of the diverse population of Arab Americans in the United States. It’s the third year that the month has been formally recognized by the federal government. To recognize the occasion, The Daily is putting a spotlight on members of the Case Western Reserve University community who identify as Arab American.
When Fuadaldin Nadi came to Case Western Reserve University, he was pleasantly surprised to find the same sense of community he enjoyed in his youth.
“Growing up it was very common for my neighbors, friends, and family members to have food [and] tea gatherings and to celebrate holidays together,” said Nadi, whose family is originally from Palestine but raised him in New Jersey.
This month, that sense of community is especially on display as Nadi and his friends at the university take part in Ramadan, a month when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. This year, Ramadan overlaps with Arab American Heritage month, as it runs from March 22 until April 21.
“It can be very challenging to go the full day without food or water while being a full-time student, but the challenge is part of what makes fasting fun and exciting,” said Nadi. “The moment of breaking the fast with friends makes the whole fast worth it.”
Following footsteps
Nadi is a third-year undergraduate student studying economics and healthcare management in the university’s integrated master’s program in supply chain management. He’ll earn his undergraduate degree in May 2024, and his master’s by fall 2024.