Islamic History Month
October
October will mark the 16th annual Islamic History Month in Canada
This year the theme for IHM is "Multicultural Flavours of Muslim Cuisine: Culinary contributions of Muslims to health, wellness, social peace and societal harmony"
The following are some ideas around which you can organize and celebrate IHMC 2022:
• Share the diversity of Muslim cuisine by organizing a Food Fest in collaboration with local Muslim businesses.
• Gather donation of non-perishables healthy food items within the community for food banks. Organize food packages for distribution.
• Public education on the Halal diet. Share knowledge of the ethics and etiquettes of food preparation and consumption.
• Showcase culture of hospitality and sharing, rights of guest and neighbours.
• Talks on the benefits of the fruits and honey mentioned in the Qur’an.
• Gather multicultural recipes to share with the public.
Local events, both associated with this year’s theme but also with connections to Islamic History in general, are being organized through the Islamic Society of Kingston (ISK) and Muslim Societies, Global Perspectives (MSGP, Queen’s University)
City Hall and Springer Market Square will be illuminated green for Islamic History Month
Although a flag representing Islam as a whole does not exist, green is used by several Islamic nations in their flags and national emblems and is significant because the Islamic prophet is said to have worn a green cloak and turban. Islamic History Month Canada provides a time to focus on celebrating and educating the Muslim and non-Muslim community on the rich history, heritage and culture of Canadian Muslims and Muslims around the world.
A few ideas for your classrooms and schools are to:
- Emphasize developing critical thinking skills and critical media literacies;
- Invite speakers of Islamic heritage to speak to your students;
- Organize a series of events in October to empower Muslim students and their allies – highlight the contributions of Muslim people in the arts, sciences, sports, and music;
From: https://educ.queensu.ca/islamic-history-month
* Please visit the site for even more suggestions!
TDSB's Resource Guide For Educators
The overall objectives of the IHM Resource Guidebook are to showcase “the important contributions of Canadian Muslims to Canadian society, the cultural diversity of the Canadian Muslim community and the importance of Canadians learning about each other to foster greater social cohesion” (TDSB IHM Press Release, 2016)":
- an educator's primer;
- daily morning announcements;
- books and publications;
- films and documentaries;
- curriculum and study guides;
- writing assignments;
- art projects;
- musicians;
- and a list of speakers, artists, and entertainers
Link to the Guide: https://www.tdsb.on.ca/Portals/0/docs/IHMResourceGuidebook-UPDATES%26REVISIONS.pdf
See Below for A Sample Activity:
A Challenge and Review from Rabia Khokar
Try Rabia Khokar's Reading Challenge:
"Books can help us affirm and expand experiences. There are so many amazing books being published that center and include Muslim characters authentically and accurately. This reading challenge is not a comprehensive list but just a way to share some of these amazing books. I believe to really move towards dignity, respect and justice for people of all identities in our world all people need to be represented all the time." - Rabia Khokar
Reading Challenge: Centering Muslim Characters
Here is part of her book review on "In My Mosque"
"This is a book for all classrooms, libraries, and community spaces because it affims as well as expands ideas around the Muslim identity and shows us the true meaning of community. This book is full of positive energy and messages. One of the most powerful messages that this book communicates is that the Muslim community is dynamic, diverse, and intersectional."
Here is a link to her full review:https://www.rabiakhokhar.com/post/book-review-in-my-mosque
LDSB's Focus
We endeavor to continue working as a collective towards equitable outcomes in the LDSB. All Canadian voices deserve to be explored, represented, and shared. These publications are a commitment to our action.
For further inquiries or sharing opportunities, please feel free to contact Rae McDonald.
Email: mcdonaldr@limestone.on.ca
Phone: 613-544-6925 (336)