Provide us with a permanent prayer space!
George Mason University
Recently, the prayer space on the third floor of the Johnson Center, utilized by hundreds of Muslim students and faculty for their five daily prayers, was deemed a fire hazard and reconfigured in a way which does not meet the needs of the community. Neither an interim space nor written formal communication was provided by administration, which left Muslim students with no other choice than to fulfill their daily prayers outside or in an ill-configured space.
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George Mason University
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[Your Name]
We are writing to demand immediate action from the administration of George Mason University to provide a larger and more suitable prayer space for the Muslim community on campus, which comprises over 1,650 members, according to Mason360. Recent events have highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated area that meets the spiritual, communal, and safety requirements of Muslim students at GMU.
On October 16th, 2024, the prayer space on the third floor of the Johnson Center was forced to be reconfigured following a fire marshal visit, deeming it a fire hazard. Although reconfiguration occurred on October 21st, it has not adequately addressed the needs of our community. With no interim space provided by the university or formal written communication from administration, Muslim students had no choice but to complete their congregation of daily prayers outdoors in Wilkins Plaza and have temporarily returned to the JC space, both of which have been undignified and inadequate solutions due to a lack of administrative support.
As the political climate intensifies and discrimination against Muslim communities grows, it is critical that the university recognizes and supports its Muslim students.
We are calling for:
1) A Permanent Prayer Space near or within the Johnson Center: A dedicated, accessible, and safe location that is large enough to accommodate the growing student body for daily prayers, congregational Friday prayers (Jumuah), and other religious activities.
2) Adequate Communication: Timely and transparent communication from the administration regarding the status and future plans for the prayer space.
3) Respect and Recognition: Support of the Muslim community’s needs and contributions to campus life, fostering an inclusive environment for all students.
We urge the university to prioritize the establishment of appropriate prayer facilities that reflect the dignity and respect that all students deserve. Our faith and community should not be compromised; rather, they should be embraced as an integral part of the university's diversity.
Join us in standing up for our rights. Sign this petition to show your support for a permanent prayer space at George Mason University.
With purpose and resolve,
GMU MSA