This week was marked by deep engagement with the Saba Center community, particularly through meaningful conversations with community leaders, parents, students, and the resident Imam. The focus of these discussions was on understanding the community's views on sex education, especially in the context of living in a Western society. I also volunteered extensively during the first ten nights of Muharram, a period of significant religious observance for Shia Muslims.

Community Engagement and Volunteering:

Volunteering during Muharram was a profound experience that allowed me to connect with the community on a deeper level. The first ten nights of Muharram are dedicated to commemorating the sacrifices of the family of the Prophet, with a strong emphasis on charity, reflection, and learning. I assisted in organizing and executing various activities, including charity drives, serving food, and helping with the daily programs that included lectures and teachings. This involvement not only demonstrated my commitment to the community but also provided me with a richer understanding of the cultural and religious context in which this project is situated.

Through my volunteer work, I had the opportunity to observe and participate in the community’s traditions, which greatly informed my approach to the project. I noticed how the teachings during Muharram focused on themes of justice, compassion, and the rights of individuals, which resonated with the core objectives of our curriculum on sex education. These experiences reinforced the importance of integrating these values into our educational program.

Conversations with Parents and Community Leaders:

Throughout the week, I met with various parents and community leaders, particularly focusing on the perspectives of older parents who have seen the community evolve over time. Many of these parents, while holding conservative views, acknowledged the growing importance of sex education in today’s world. They recognized that while traditional values must be respected, it is crucial for young people to be informed about gender, sex, consent, and healthy relationships in a way that aligns with Islamic teachings.

These parents expressed a nuanced understanding of the challenges their children face in navigating these topics in a Western context. They agreed that a well-structured, tactfully delivered curriculum could play a vital role in shaping healthy attitudes towards sex and relationships. Their insights were invaluable in shaping our approach, highlighting the need for a curriculum that is not only informative but also sensitive to the cultural and religious context of the community.

Meeting with the Resident Imam:

A significant highlight of the week was my discussion with the resident Imam, who has a deep understanding of Islamic teachings and their application to contemporary issues. The Imam showed a keen interest in collaborating on the development of a curriculum that would address key topics such as marriage, the rights of women, consent, and love within an Islamic framework. His input was particularly enlightening, as he provided theological insights that will ensure our curriculum is both doctrinally sound and practically relevant.

The Imam emphasized the importance of discussing these topics in a way that upholds Islamic values while also addressing the realities faced by young Muslims today. He offered to help design content that would be both educational and spiritually enriching, ensuring that the program is well-received by the community.

Moving Forward:

This week’s experiences have laid a solid foundation for the project. The support and recognition from parents, community leaders, and the Imam have reaffirmed the need for this initiative and provided clear direction on how to proceed. The next steps will involve working closely with the Imam and other community members to begin developing the curriculum, ensuring that it meets the community's needs while respecting its values.

The relationships and trust built this week will be crucial as we move forward, and I am committed to maintaining this level of engagement throughout the project.