The Daily Campus

Issue date: 11/18/02 Section: Focus

The group that attended the dinner varied in age and ethnic background, as not only students but also alumni and friends of those involved came together. The food was excellent, having some traditional dishes as well as some that were not. "This is my first time to something like this, and I feel very comfortable. Right from the beginning everyone was so welcoming," said Ulrike Wiebusch, one who attended. Afterward, Zaid Shaker spoke. Shaker is an accomplished artist, poet and written several Islamic publications, as was outlined in his biography presented on the tables. He emphasized how the dinner was a multi cultural, multi ethnic, multi religious assembly, saying that it is significant because "we live in a time when the winds of bigotry are blowing...this gives us faith that the forces behind these winds...are weakening." He described that the tradition of Islam is one that is very rich, very deep, and one with a very varied heritage, and outlined the three most important aspects of the religion: to preserve religion, life, and the intellect, faith, and inner excellence. "Islam and Muslims, like all other people are trying to make this world a better place," Shaker told his audience. The entire dinner experience was an excellent one, as it helped lift the shroud of naivete for the people who attended, helping to banish misunderstanding about a culture and religion so beautiful and rich. It is experiences like these bring people of all different cultures and backgrounds together, to learn about one another and foster new friendship and

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