The Daily Gamecock

​Muslim Gamecocks seek to bridge cultural gap at International Students event

Before a generous crowd in the Carolina Room of Capstone House on Nov. 11, four USC students addressed the experience of following Islam in the U.S.

The event was presented by the Thinking Globally program of International Student Services. Organizers hoped discussion would bring together Muslim and non-Muslim USC students alike in the aftermath of a heated election cycle.

“We were motivated by not only the political season … but just with the motivation of getting students together to talk about their differences in an educated and open manner,” Lauren Smith, assistant director of International Student Services, said.

The results of Tuesday’s election were a recurring theme. Sabrina Karim, a master’s epidemiology student, said that while the idea of a Trump presidency concerns her, she has no intent of leaving the country that she has come to love so much.

“My mom called me and asked me, ‘What are you thinking? Are you going to complete your master’s there?’” Karim said. “What should I do other than that?”

“I have to study. I haven’t done anything wrong,” Karim said.

Mohammad Usman, a graduate chemistry student in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, said non-Muslim Americans need to research the Islamic faith rather than reacting on emotions of fear.

Though he acknowledged cultural misunderstanding, Usman believes his abilities will speak for him as he seeks to advance in his field.

“Talent and skill transcend everything in the world,” Usman said. “Nothing can control you if you have control over yourself and if you believe in yourself.”

Usman also criticized his religion’s representation in the media, encouraging students to form their opinion of Islam by studying the Quran and the teachings of the prophet Muhammad.

The discussion was moderated by Hamid Khan, an adjunct professor and deputy director of USC’s Rule of Law Collaborative. An alumnus of the University of Wyoming and Michigan Law, Khan has previously worked with representatives in both houses of Congress and as an assistant U.S. attorney.

Speaking on Friday, Khan encouraged his fellow Muslims to reach out to the community, just as they have asked the community to reach out to them.

“When you look at most of the practices of Islam, you’ll find great familiarity in the practices that Christians have or the Jews have,” Khan said. “And I think that’s an important starting point for a discussion.”

Creed and Diversity Week wrapped up on Nov. 12 with the final Service Saturday of the semester.


Comments