Earlier this month, dozens of Muslims joined their Latino neighbors in the parking lot of the new Islamic Center of Santa Ana in California, taking part in an inter-cultural campaigned coined “Taco Trucks at Every Mosque.” Activists Rida Hamida and Ben Vazque say they wish to promote unity across the areas Muslim and Latino communities through the sharing of food – and invited the community for an iftar, the breaking of the Ramadan fast.
More than 400 people attended the iftar, and the organizers say they have a new goal to host food tucks that will serve halal tacos at every OC mosque. “This is perfect timing. The purpose of this month is to give charity, to grow our character and our inner lives and to nourish our soul through service. What better way to do that than by learning from one another?” says Rida Hamida, a Muslim mother and community organizer from Anaheim.
“It takes energy and compassion to live among cultures,” says Claudia Perez, 24, a sociology major at nearby UC Irvine. “And because our Muslim community seems to be invisible, that’s why I’m here… I think it’s a beautiful experience that everyone should really try.”
“We’re building bridges,” concurs Ms. Hamida. “One taco truck at a time.”
