These values are reflected in The Chaplaincy’s ‘Tree of Life’ symbol that represents “strength, individuality and expression, calmness, growth and the interconnectedness of everything.”

We visited The Chaplaincy on 16 November, just in time for Islamophobia: Real Voices, True Stories – a special afternoon discussion dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of Islam and the experiences of Muslims in Glasgow.

Led by Rev. Meg Masson (University Chaplain and Interfaith Minister) and Rameez Mahmood (Muslim Chaplain), this one-hour session allowed everyone to share their stories, ask questions, and share ideas on what we should be doing based on this year’s theme of Islamophobia Awareness Month, #TacklingDenial.

Here, we listened to the story of how women in hijab (head scarf) receive catcalls on a daily basis; their hijab, perceived as a badge of difference, carries negative religious connotations and often leads to gender-based violence. We talked about what’s missing in schools for young kids to learn about Islam, including Muslim diversity, Muslim contribution to the Western world and society, and Muslim achievements that are often unheard of in national curriculum textbooks.

This is why we need The Chaplaincy. It’s the place that encourages us to continuously learn more about each other and everyone in our community without having to be afraid that we might say something wrong because everyone is here to better themselves as contributing members of society.

This event is only one of many good things happening at The Chaplaincy. The Chaplaincy also hosts recurring events to support all Strathclyders.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Strathclyde University Chaplaincy (@chaplaincystrat)

• Soup Lunch: Hot, tasty soup donated by Strath Union is served every weekday from 12:00 to 14:00 (or until it runs out).

• Café Drop-In: Enjoy tea, coffee, and biscuits every weekday from 10:00 to 16:00.

• International Student Dinner: Meet new friends from every corner of the world over a vegetarian/Halal meal every Wednesday from 17:30 to 19.30.

For more information about faith, spirituality, and support at The Strathclyde Chaplaincy, please visit here.