In the heart of Evesham, New Jersey, a series of events are unfolding to celebrate Muslim Heritage Month, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of the Muslim community. These events, taking place at Marlton Middle School, Frances Demasi Middle and Elementary School, and the Evesham Public Library, are not just a celebration but also an educational journey for all participants.
1. A Literary Evening at Evesham Public Library
The Evesham Public Library, in collaboration with the Evesham Book Club, is hosting a special event to kick off the celebrations. On January 17th, 2023, the library was the venue for reading “Salt Houses,” a poignant novel by a Palestinian author. This event is not just a reading session but a bridge connecting different cultures through the power of storytelling.
Sharon Billadoux is a teacher at Cherokee, a member of the Human Rights Advisory Committee, and the head of the book club.
Heather Cooper is the councilwoman of Evesham township and liaison to the human rights advisory committee, whose goal is to recognize the diverse community at Evesham and ensure all have equal rights, have played pivotal roles in organizing this event. Their efforts underscore the importance of literature in fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.
Evesham Public Library, besides having the book club event, also allowed us to use the outside library display to showcase our items.
2. Marlton Middle School Embraces Cultural Diversity
At Marlton Middle School, the celebration of Muslim Heritage Month has taken a creative turn. The school’s library has been transformed into a vibrant showcase of Muslim culture thanks to the efforts of its Muslim students. Their dedication to decorating the library has brought a new life to the school’s corridors.
Mr. Gary Hoffman, a key figure at Marlton Middle School, has been instrumental in this endeavor. His understanding and support of the Muslim students’ needs have been crucial in creating an inclusive and respectful environment for all students.
3. Frances Demasi Schools’ Cultural Showcase
The spirit of Muslim Heritage Month is also vibrantly alive at Frances Demasi Middle and Elementary School. Here, the Muslim students have taken the lead in decorating the school, creating an atmosphere of celebration and cultural pride. Their efforts, guided by Mrs. Beverly Green, have turned the school into a canvas showcasing the beauty of Muslim heritage.
These decorations are not just adornments; they are educational tools that help students from different backgrounds learn about and appreciate the richness of Muslim culture.
Special Thanks to Dr. Justin Smith
We thank Dr. Justin Smith, the Superintendent of Schools, for his unwavering support and encouragement in these initiatives. His leadership and commitment to cultural diversity and inclusion have played a significant role in the success of these events. Dr. Smith’s vision for an educational environment that embraces and celebrates diversity is truly commendable.
The events organized in Evesham, NJ, for Muslim Heritage Month by Marlton Muslim Families, a nonprofit organization, are more than just celebrations; they are a testament to the power of community, education, and cultural exchange. They remind us that understanding and appreciating diverse cultures is crucial in today’s global society. Through these events, Evesham sets an example of how communities can come together to celebrate and learn from each other’s heritage, fostering a more inclusive and harmonious world.
