The Marshall University Muslim Student Association works every day to educate people about who they are and what they stand for. Their main purpose is to educate students and anyone else about Islam and break down the barriers that exist.

“We hold events to combat hate, but to mainly educate and inform others about who we are,” said president of the Student Muslim Association, Suzann Al-Qawasmi.

Some of the big events the association hosts happen during Islam Awareness Week during Nov. During this week, they have events that highlight their culture, like Meet a Muslim and Hijab Day, which is a day entirely dedicated to Muslim women.

“During this day, we have hijabs, which is a veil or scarf traditionally worn by Muslim women, for the women on campus to try on. They can pick their color and we show them how to wrap and wear it,” Al-Qawasmi said.

It is all about communication and stepping forward and learning about their culture and starting conversation.

“Marshall has diversity, but it needs to be highlighted. We are living our ordinary life, but we are letting people know why we are valuable to not only Marshall’s culture but Huntington’s as well,” said vice president of the Student Muslim Association, Malak Khader.

Since the election, the MSA has had many people want to join and partner with them to help spread their message.

“The Muslim Student Association is not just for the Muslim, it has it in the name, but it’s not closed off just for Muslims, it’s open for anyone,” Malak said.

The MSA has more opportunities and initiatives since the election of President Donald Trump.

“We can’t let the results of the election stop us from doing what we do. Now more than ever we need to be vocal,” Al-Qawasmi said.

Jesse McLain can be contacted at [email protected].