As a Muslim, I have personally experienced the challenges and discomfort that arises from conducting my daily religious ablution in public bathrooms at the University. It is disheartening to see my fellow Muslim student body feel as if one's religious practice aren't being met or represented in the most equitable and inclusive ways. Therefore, I am starting this petition to urge St. John's University to require portable wudu (الوضوء; ablution) stations in Marillac Hall, to be specifically located on the 3rd Floor nearby our University's Muslim Prayer Room (312 A&B). Given that our Muslim students already have a sacred room to pray, it is only right for them to be able to conduct their ablution in the most represented and sanitary ways. I hope for this initiative to be carried out by SGi's Sustainability Committee where it will not only help in an affordable alternative to saving water during one's cleansing process without needing to keep a sink tap running, but also cater towards the basic needs of our overwhelming general Muslim student body for when they conduct their five daily prayers on campus as their religious obligation. 

By signing this petition, you are advocating for an inclusive campus environment where all students we represent feel valued and respected, regardless of one's creed. Together, we can create positive everlasting change within our university community, and for next student leaders to come. Sign this petition today and help us make this happen Insha'Allah! Please feel free to share with your SJU friends!

-- Sara Khan, Assistant Chair to the Sustainability Committee of the SGi at St. John's University

"It was narrated that Omar ibn ‘Absah said, ‘I asked Rasūl Allah: 'O Messenger of Allah! How is wuđūˀ done?' He said: 'When you perform Wudu', and you wash your hands to clean them, your sins come out from between your fingers and fingertips. When you rinse your mouth and nostrils, then wash your face and hands up to the elbows, and wipe your head, and then wash your feet up to the ankles, you are cleansed of all your sins. When you prostrate your face to Allah (may He be exalted) you come out of your sins and become pure like the day your mother gave birth to you.'"