UMKC Muslim Student Association Hosts Vigil in Solidarity with Palestine Group encourages students to be active participants in promoting peace and justice
The UMKC Muslim Student Association (MSA) held a solemn vigil in solidarity with Palestine outside the Miller Nichols Library.
The event brought together a diverse group of students who united to express their support for the thousands of individuals affected by the recent violence in Palestine.
According to attendees, the vigil demonstrated the power of raising awareness and advocating for peace in the face of global conflicts.
Speakers addressed the students who gathered, sharing stories and perspectives. They also helped attendees better understand the human casualties toll of the ongoing conflict.
Mouada Allan, a UMKC senior and pre-medicine student, started her speech by reading a poem by Mahmoud Darwish called “Our Land,” and then gave her own remarks.
“We can not, in good conscience, remain passive spectators while innocent men, women and children are mercilessly slaughtered,” Allan said.
Students were encouraged to reach out to state representatives and advocate for a ceasefire resolution, reminding students of the role they can play in influencing political decisions and policies. The gathering encouraged students to be active participants in promoting peace and justice, both within their local community and on a broader, international scale.
The event concluded with a dua, or prayer, which is a symbol of empathy and unity. It served as a moment of reflection and collective hope for those who have tragically lost their lives.
Seeking peaceful resolutions was the underlying theme of the gathering, one that attending students hope major governments will seek to follow. It allowed attendees to express their shared grief and common desire for peace.
“The reason we had the vigil was so that we can commemorate, honor and respect the thousands of innocent lives that were lost,” Allan said. “It was a time for us to give a voice to those who have had theirs taken away and to gather with each other to show our support for each other and the people of Palestine.”
