“We, as Network Diversity and Inclusion and HU Home, organized this evening with the approach of meeting and connecting,” says Emre Cicek, teacher of Social Work and driver of the Network Diversity and Inclusion. “Everyone in attendance made it very special as we were able to reflect the HU community in all its colors and shapes tonight. That’s why we’re doing this, it brings us all together.”

Opening

The events square at Padualaan 97, where this event took place, quickly filled up with all kinds of students and employees who quickly found a place at one of the many tables that were ready here today. The chatter between them about anything and everything was stopped by the speech that Emre began. He talked about Ramadan, Iftar, and the event itself. “We want to be able to see everyone, appreciate everyone for who that person is. In the context of “sense of belonging”, we find it very valuable to be able to value people and that we can provide more connection and involve the HU community with events like this, we are very grateful for that.”

Perspective game

The opening was followed by the perspective game. Everyone received a red and a green card with which you could indicate a right or wrong answer. It started simply with questions such as “Are you a student or employee” or “Will you fast yourself this month.” A little later, the questions were substantive about Ramadan. “Put up the green ticket if the fast starts at sunrise,” Cicek asked. The hall turns green, but this was an instinct. “Fasting begins at dawn, just before sunrise.”

Guest speaker

After these questions, it was time for the guest speaker of the evening, Joram van Klaveren. Van Klaveren is a former PVV MP who converted to Islam after he left the chamber. He now works at the Islam Experience Center (IXC), an organization that offers a journey through the history of Islam with virtual reality glasses. Van Klaveren told about his journey, how he got into politics, and how he became a Muslim. “One day I woke up and I thought: shit, I think I’m going to become a Muslim. When I mentioned this to my wife, her response was that the dishwasher still needed to be emptied. She meant that life just goes on. And when life goes on, the dishwasher must be unloaded.”

Iftar meal

And finally, at exactly 20.27 when it was sunset, it was time for the Iftar meal. Extensive catering with various dishes was ready and while the queue was quickly forming, a tray of dates passed around the room. While the food was enjoyed to the fullest, those present, including Cicek, chatted about this special evening. “I am very proud of today. I’m happy how we set this up as a team with a relaxed atmosphere and were able to share this together. It was an inspiring, pleasant evening with togetherness and good food.”

By: Noa Meerwijk

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