BREAKING FAST TOGETHER WITH PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: "Representation or Worship Depends on Intent"

Through the spirit of inclusion and concern for people with disabilities, on March 31, 2024, an iftar event was held by the Research and Publishing Center (Puslitpen) of UIN Jakarta in collaboration with Paradifa Indonesia. This event is one of the tangible forms of commitment to create a friendly and inclusive environment for all individuals, without exception. Preparations have been made by various parties, including volunteers, representatives of relevant agencies, and of course, the event organizers.

Twenty participants, consisting of people with disabilities, and volunteers gathered to share moments of togetherness and warmth in celebrating the holy month of Ramadan. Diversity and abundance of cooperation spirit became the hallmark of this event. The event was attended by representatives from the Cheshire Indonesia Foundation, Disabled Motorcycle Community or DMC, representatives from the visually impaired community, Zouf Coustic (a band group specifically for the visually impaired), Paradifa, and the Indonesian Disabled Women's Association or HWDI.

The iftar event with people with disabilities was held at the Main Auditorium Uni Club Room today, March 31, 2024, starting from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. This event was held as a form of concern and support for people with disabilities to provide them with the opportunity to feel togetherness and warmth in celebrating the holy month of Ramadan.

The event began with the recitation of the Qur'an delivered by Ahmad Mukhlis from the representative of the Informatics Engineering students. It was then followed by a welcome speech by the Chairperson of Paradifa Indonesia, Echi Pramitasari, and the next speech was delivered by the Head of Puslitpen, Siti Ummi Masruroh. The next event was a socializing session and the distribution of door prizes for participants. The event concluded with breaking the fast together.

This event was organized through the cooperation of Puslitpen UIN Jakarta together with Paradifa and BAKTI Kemkominfo. Full support from volunteers and relevant agencies was the key to the success of the event. Good coordination and solid cooperation among various parties ensured that all preparations were carried out smoothly, from venue provision, menu arrangement, to logistics management.

Not only for the participants, but this event also provided an opportunity for volunteers and representatives of relevant agencies to better understand and get closer to the reality of the lives of people with disabilities. They could witness firsthand how diversity can be a source of strength, how cooperation and solidarity can produce significant positive impacts in someone's life.

May we create an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals, and may this spirit continue to be upheld so that everyone can feel warmth and togetherness in every moment of their lives. (PIH\Faadhila Idris)