This fall, Westford Academy welcomes a new addition to its club roster: the Muslim Student Association (MSA). The MSA aims to create a supportive environment for Muslim students while educating the general public about Islam and Islamic culture.
Although it is still in its early stages, the club has already established a dedicated community while also attracting the general public. For many WA students, MSA functions as more than just a club; it is a space for connection, celebration, and education.
Founded by a pair of students, senior Simrah Azmi and junior Arleyya Mohd, the first members spent long hours after school planning how the club logistics would work as well as finding a club advisor. Due to his passion for cultural education, new Spanish teacher Joseph Schmidt took on the role of club advisor at the beginning of this year.
“Islam is a beautiful religion, and I don’t think enough people in this country know that,” Schmidt said. “We want to show the diversity within it and help people learn. Also, Muslim cultures have amazing food, and we plan to share plenty of it.”
Although the club officially launched this year, it has been in the works for quite some time. Azmi and Mohd spent the previous year laying the groundwork and gathering interest for the organization.
“We started halfway through [last] year, and it was hard to get people together at first. We weren’t even sure who would show up,” Azmi said. “But we had a lot of support from the administration, and eventually built a small team of committed students who really care.”
According to Mohd, the club has facilitated current event discussions, played games, and shared life advice based off of members’ own experiences to help individuals become better versions of themselves.
“It’s always nice to have a club where there are people you can connect with, relate to, and share experiences with,” Azmi said. “But it’s also open to everyone. Whether you’re Muslim or just curious to learn more, we want it to be a chill inclusive space.”
The club has already started planning more engaging meetings and events. From roundtable discussions to cultural events celebrating Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, the MSA aims to educate others and recognize Islamic culture. So far, the cabinet has discussed laying out a foundation for events centered around Ramadan and Eid.
“We would love to host an Eid celebration for the end of Ramadan. I think it’s a nice way to connect with everyone’s culture and eat a lot of food from around the world,” Mohd said. “Islam is a religion that everyone in the world can appreciate; it’s something that brings us together.”
Additionally, the MSA hopes to challenge common misconceptions and break down stereotypes surrounding Muslims, thereby educating individuals on the reality of their religion.
As the school year proceeds, the MSA plans to host cultural events, collaborate with other students, and grow its presence throughout the school. While this is Azmi’s last year at WA, one of her goals is to leave behind a legacy that lasts.
“I’m a senior this year, so I won’t be in the club next year but we’re hoping to build a strong foundation for the club and pass traditions down to the future WA students,” Azmi said.
According to Azmi, MSA is a representation of unity and growth that brings students together. Whether people are looking for a space to connect with other individuals through their ethnic beliefs, or expand their knowledge of the culture, the MSA aims to cover both aspects.
“I hope this club will impact and bring together the Muslims in Westford,” Mohd said. “This means connecting families together and celebrating special occasions together to bring community and comfort of every Muslim family.”
