Editor’s note: This column is a part of the Lanthorn’s Diversity Dialogue series, which gives students who identify as part of a minority population the platform to tell their stories of what life is like as a Laker.

Salam.

Allow me to express in a language that is easily understood by all. A language globalized all around the world. My language. Even if I tried to speak my native tongue of my parents, I could not. I am not able to, because my parents immigrated here and worked hard to place me in a seat, in a classroom, that promised a great education and a successful life. Worked hard enough for me to sacrifice my ancestral language.

Ilm.

Each of my siblings were next up in line; to attend high school to graduate, then to attend college to graduate, choosing a profession to pursue. We all need to graduate to succeed to live the “American Dream.”

Hilm.
I am an American.
I am a Muslim.
I am an Arab.
As I am all of these,I am neither.
I cannot fit comfortably into the perfectly shaped identity that was created for all of us.

I found my place in Grand Valley State University as a placeholder that was presented to me, initially. But then I was able to mold my space. I started adding shapes and colors from my other worlds. Molded and shaped.
Dayira.
I see GVSU growing as an inclusive space for equity and understanding.
Spaces are provided for the Muslim community. In the modern time where, although we have endured history of discrimination, fear of the foreign is continually instilled.
Khawf.

I am not angry. How can I, if the fever of ignorance blinds many from the dawn of knowledge? But, in a world where emotions have fed ignorance and fear, GVSU is an academic institute that is eager to bring discussion of reason to the table. A round table for a seat for each one of us, no matter where you came from. You came to the seat with something to offer. As did I. As did the Muslims willing to trade in peace. Trade knowledge to grow.
Shukran.
We are grateful for the spaces.
We are thankful for the talks, where real issues are spoken without words of ill.

There is time for opportunities to work with each one another, to learn from one another. I am thankful for all that I have gained in my time here. I only hope to see it grow wide from here. I only hope to see it move across everywhere.

May peace be upon us all.
Ma’Salama.