Dear University of Mississippi Administration,

We are members of the university community who respectfully request the establishment of a larger, clean, and appropriately equipped prayer room on campus to meet the needs of Muslim students and faculty.

The current prayer room, which accommodates a maximum of 15 people, is insufficient for the growing Muslim population of over 200 students and faculty members. Furthermore, the room is beside a bathroom with no stall doors, leading to an unsanitary and uncomfortable environment when trying to engage in daily prayer. This issue significantly affects our Hijabi Muslim sisters on campus, as this severely limits their ability to perform ablution (wudu) in a secure space. 

As a spiritual reflection and worship space, the prayer room must be clean, accessible, and suitable for the number of individuals who use it. The existing room's condition does not reflect the university’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for religious diversity. A larger, well-maintained space would help foster an environment where students and faculty feel supported in their religious practices.

We propose that the university consider establishing a dedicated prayer space that can comfortably accommodate a significant portion of the Muslim community, with necessary amenities such as:

1. A clean, private bathroom for ablution (wudu) with proper doors on bathroom stalls.
2. A prayer space large enough to accommodate group prayers (especially Friday prayers) for at least 50 people at a time.
3. Regular maintenance to ensure the space remains clean and in good condition.

This request aligns with the university’s values of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as it will greatly improve the well-being of Muslim students and faculty, allowing us to focus more on our academic and social responsibilities.

We hope that you will consider this petition in good faith and take action to ensure a more welcoming and accommodating environment for all.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Adam Soltani 
President, The Muslim Student Association 
University of Mississippi