Editorial:

MU lacks in accommodation for Muslim prayer

Published Feb. 10, 2009

A couple months, ago it seemed as if the Muslim students on campus had resolved the problem of where to conduct their daily prayer between classes. But A.P. Green Chapel just hasn't been working out because the space is public and can be rented out, and members from the Muslim Student Organization have complained of the space being locked during some of the specific times it was needed for prayer.

It is important these students have adequate space to conduct their prayer but it is definitely a fine line. We're all for the proposal that an empty room in the new student center be reserved for quiet reflection at all times for all students. This would guarantee Muslim students a quiet place to pray as well as creating a space that is welcoming to all students, an important thing to take into consideration due to the public nature of this university.

The room should be a open but quiet area. Not only would it serve to make students of all backgrounds comfortable, but it would also be much more helpful than the space the students previously occupied in the library.

The new student center is not going to be finished for a few years and Muslim students have the right to a place on campus that does meet their needs as both a religious and student organization.

Because the Muslim students on campus do have a student organization they should use it to reserve rooms in various empty classrooms around campus. Because their prayers are conducted at certain times they should be able to work something out so they can use the empty classrooms on campus. It will take some planning and it might -- well, probably won't be -- the same place every time. As an organization, MSO has the means of making their voice heard and of informing their members of the daily changes. While their role as an advocate is important, they have the opportunity to coordinate an important service for the Muslim community.