Our Community

Click on any heading marked with + to expand the content

African American Community

Does the Ambatama lounge and Trotter Multicultural Center belong to the Black students on campus?
The Afro–American Lounge is the name of the Lounge in South Quad. Ambatana, which is Swahili for stick together is the name of the South Quad Multicultural Council. The Afro–American Lounge was created in the 1970’s by the Black Action Movement. It was created as a space for students of color to feel welcome and comfortable during some very challenging moments at the University. There are numerous multicultural lounges in residence halls designed to continue to provide a space for people of color but also for various activities and programs for everyone regardless of their race or social identity to enhance their knowledge and awareness of various cultures. More information on the Housing Lounges can be found at http://www.housing.umich.edu/info/lounge_bios.html. Additional history on the lounge and their current usage can be received by contacting Robbie Townsend, Director Office of Cultural Awareness and Diversity Education – 1500 Student Activities Building – rmdye@umich.edu.
In regards to the Trotter Multicultural Center, it belongs to the campus community. While it can be a safe space for any students, it is also a happening place for meeting new people, enjoying various cultural enriching activities and learning the history and purpose of that space.
Is it ok to describe Black people as Black, or do they prefer African, African–American...?
Regardless of which group or community of people one is referring to, it is typically best to operate according to the way people choose to be described. If someone prefers to be described as brown, yellow, purple, we should respect that person’s decision to be identified in that way. What’s acceptable for one is not always acceptable for someone else.
Why is there a Black Student Union?
This best information regarding this can be found at the Black Student Union Home page in the About Us section http://www.umich.edu/~sankofa/. There is an entire history that can best explain why there is Black Student Union.
Do all Black students at Michigan come from Detroit?
The quick answer is No. For specific demographic details contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions or the Office of the Vice President for Communications as that demographic information is public information.
Where can you go to find out more about the culture and history of people of African descent?
There are many places to find this information but one place so consider is the Center for African American Studies (CAAS) here at UM.

Arab and Arab American Community

Who is an Arab? / Where are Arabs from?
The word Arab is used to describe the ethnic identity of people who originate from Arab nations. Nations that consider themselves Arab have Arabic as a national language and often have very strong ties in history and culture. These countries are located in the Middle East and North Africa.
Is there an Arabic Studies department on campus?
The University of Michigan is focused on varied issues of the Arab-American community. There are many classes concerning Arab culture and language that you can take through the Department of Near Eastern Studies. Also, the University of Michigan is currently in the process of continuing development of an Arab–American Studies department that will focus on the varied issues of the Arab–American community. More information, including professors, instructors, and class subjects can be found here in this article from the Program in American Culture
Do Arabs pray 5 times a day?
The word Arab (an ethnic identity) and Muslim (a religious identity) are often used interchangeably, but the truth is that not all Arabs are Muslim. There are numerous communities of Arabs who ascribe to religions other than Islam. In fact, about half of Lebanese people and 20 percent of Palestinians are Christian. Interestingly enough, the majority of Muslims are not even Arab! You can get more information on the Muslim community in the section relating to Muslims below.
I've heard there are a lot of Arabs in Dearborn/Detroit, is that true?
Yes! The largest Arab community outside the Middle East and North Africa is near Ann Arbor. In fact, the Arab community in Dearborn is over 100 years old. There’s also a large Arab population in Ann Arbor as well as in Chicago, L.A., New York, and other cities all over the nation. If you’re interested in learning more, you should visit the only Arab American Museum in the U.S., located in Dearborn.
What Arab organizations are available on campus?
There are a whole range of organizations on campus that deal with the Arab community ranging from predominantly political groups, such as Students Allied for Freedom and Equality (SAFE) to predominantly apolitical groups, such as the Arab Students Association (ASA). In addition to SAFE and ASA there are the Lebanese Students Association (LSA), the Iraqi Students Association (ISA), and the Palestinian Students Association (PSA). (Not to mention groups in the graduate colleges as well!) All registered and University sanctioned student organizations can be found in Maize Pages.

Asian and Asian Pacific Islander American Community

What is the difference between Asian and Asian American?
The difference between Asian and Asian American is largely based on individual identification. Asian refers to people originating from the continent, which is vastly diverse in itself. Asian American typically describes people of Asian descent living in America. People can identify as being both, one group, or neither. Within both categories, there are many other ethnicities. This can include Filipino (American), Pakistani (American), Hmong (American), Korean (American), and several more. Many people believe that Asian American is a political identity, one that was created during the Civil Rights movement to both show solidarity between multiple Asian ethnicities and create a name different from racial slurs used in the mainstream.
There are so many A/PIA organizations on campus. How do I choose which one is right for me?
You should evaluate your interests first. The groups on campus provide resources for those who are interested in community service, performance, activism, mentorship, religion, Greek life, and ethnic–specific groups. A helpful guide to all of these student groups is Maize Pages. Festifall, Winterfest, and Northfest are great opportunities to explore these organizations and meet the people in them. For first–years, Proactive, a magazine published by United Asian American Organizations, outlines many ways for new students to get involved. Most organizations have heavily publicized mass meetings at the start of each semester, which anyone can attend.
What is the model minority myth and is it beneficial for A/PIAs?
The model minority myth implies that Asians have exceptional academic skills, are overachievers, and polite. Though on the surface this may seem like a good stereotype, it is still detrimental. First, the myth hints that there are some not–so–model minorities in America as well, specifically Blacks and Latinos; Asians also seem to surpass white people’s skills, threatening their dominance. The stereotype creates unrealistic expectations for most A/PIAs and fractures solidarity between people of color. Secondly, this ignores the immigration history of Asians post–1965, which brought many highly–educated people to America. At the same time, it obscures the even more recent immigration of refugees and disenfranchised workers from Asia. Finally, it allows for racism faced by A/PIAs to be overlooked. This causes many to think A/PIAs have no need for civil rights or institutionalized support, such as healthcare and labor resources.
What does South Asian mean? Are South Asians considered Asian?
South Asia includes Pakistan, the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. Some may argue that Afghanistan and Iran are part of South Asia. Many people perceive the term Asian to represent those of East Asian descent, though South Asia is officially included within that categorization. Whether individuals identify specifically with their country of origin, South Asian, Asian, or Asian American is largely a personal choice. Many people also choose to identify as Desi, a term that incorporates all people of South Asian descent. There's a vibrant community campus with groups that touch on religion, performance, Greek life, and other facets of South Asian culture, all of which you can find on Maize Pages. The Center for South Asian Studies is a great academic resource for students interested in South Asia.
What does Pacific Islander mean?
Within the context of the term A/PIA, Pacific Islander includes two groups, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. There is a vast array of Pacific Islands, ranging from New Zealand, Samoa, Guam, Fiji, and many more. Recently, the federal government has been using the term Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander to be more inclusive of different ethnicities, as well as increase specificity of the broad term, A/PIA. Many Pacific Islanders argue that the category A/PIA is not representative of their history and culture. When it comes to A/PIA visibility, few Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders are seen representing the group. Many also believe that Native Hawaiians have parallel histories to Native Americans regarding colonization and their relationship to the American government. An excellent resource for students to go to is the Asian/Pacific Islander Studies Program within American Culture, where several professors specialize in Pacific Islander Studies.

Native Community

Oh you're Native? How much are you/what percent?
Blood quantum is one of many methods for defining tribal enrollment. It does not define the extent of someone's Native identity. Being Native is not only about blood quantum. It is primarily about someone's relationship to the language, traditions, religion, culture, and community.
Do you speak Indian?
There is no such language or culture as Indian. There are over 500 different Native American tribes in the United States, each with their own customs, beliefs, and cultures. Additionally, there are hundreds of different indigenous languages in the United States that are still used today.
Can I learn one of those Native languages?
Yes! The American Culture department offers Ojibwe classes as part of its curriculum. You can learn the language and a little bit about the culture. It can even count as your language requirement for the University.
Can I take other classes about Native Americans on campus?
Yes! The Native American Studies Program offers courses about Native America through the American Culture department. It includes a wide variety of topics and has a dedicated staff. A Native American Studies minor is even available for students. Visit the Native American Studies website for more information.
Is there a Native community on campus?
Yes! There is a community of Native students, faculty, staff, and other members on campus. There are student groups: the Native American Student Association, the American Indian Science and Engineering Society, the Native American Law Student Association. Visit the AIUM website for more information!
What is a powwow?
Pow Wows are gatherings that Native American people use as a place to meet, dance, sing and otherwise renew and strengthen our rich culture. These gatherings are held year–round and many Native people travel great distances to attend them. The Ann Arbor Pow Wow is one of the largest university–run pow wows in the country, with more than 1,000 of North America's greatest singers, dancers, artists and craftspeople.
Why don’t you look Indian?
There is no one way that Native people look. There are many different indigenous cultures and communities in the United States. Also, American Indian communities and people can be multi–racial/multi–ethnic just as any other community or person. Many Native people also have European, African, Latin American or other mixed ancestry in addition to their Native ancestry.
What’s the politically correct term: Native American, American Indian, Indian, or something else?
There is no one correct term for Native people. Everyone calls themselves something different. At U of M, Nativ" is probably the most commonly used term. Indigenous is another word that is often used. First Nations or First Peoples are also quite common however these are usually used in reference to people indigenous to Canada. Alaskan Natives is the most common term used to refer to people indigenous to the region of Alaska.

Latino Community

What comprises the Latin@ community?
Latinos are from cities, suburbs as well as multi–cultural or homogenous communities. The community is made up of people with a dynamic array of sizes, shapes, skin tones, experiences, and language skills. Latino contributions to American society and culture cannot be understated. We encourage you to find the student organization that fits you best.
Are there any organizations specifically for Latin@ students?
There are many different organization on campus the tend to the needs of a Latin@ college student. Everything from community service organizations to social organizations are available for students to join. These organizations include fraternities and sororities, dance groups, political groups, and many many more.
Are there any student–run Latin@ programs?
There are a few programs on campus that are completely student lead. The Assisting Latinos to Maximize Achievement (ALMA) Program is a four–day orientation program for incoming Latin@ students that strives to introduce on–campus resources to students as well as engage them in various dialogs and workshops targeting the expectation and struggles of the community at the university. Another program is the Latino Culture Show which is a event typically held in a large auditorium for the student body and greater Ann Arbor community which demonstrates aspects of Latin@ culture via skits, dance, spoken word, and other art forms.

Muslim Community

What is the difference between Islam and Muslims?
Islam is the religion, and means peace and submission. Peace means to be at peace with oneself and one’s surroundings and submission means submission to the will of God. A broader meaning of the word Islam is to achieve peace by submitting to the will of God.
A Muslim is one who practices the religion of Islam. The word Musli means one who submits to the will of God. This is done by declaring that there is no god except one God and Muhammad is the messenger of God. According to this religion, anyone who willingly submits to the will of God is a Muslim.
What do Muslims believe in?
Muslims are followers of Islam, one of the three main Abrahamic faiths, alongside Judaism and Christianity. People will often assume that Islam is much more foreign and abstract given today’s current context but the main tenets and beliefs of Islam are relatively close to that of the other Abrahamic faiths. Muslims believe in one God, the prophets of God (from Adam to Moses and Jesus), and that Muhammad was the last prophet and messenger of God.
If I am Muslim, where can I find a place to pray between classes and Friday prayers (Jummah)?
There is a room designated for prayer in our Trotter Multicultural Center (1443 Washtenaw Ave.) in Conference Room B on the second floor. There is also the opera lounge in the Michigan Union which is available for prayer. During the week, one may pray at the reflection rooms located in the League, Haven Hall, Chemistry Building and room 2404 of the Duderstadt Center. The reflection rooms are open between 7:30am to 10:30pm. Jummah is prayed at 2:15pm generally in the Union or the League. Exact locations are sent out through the Muslim Student Association email list.
What organizations serve Muslim students?
The Muslim Students’ Association works for the betterment of the Muslim and non–Muslim community on campus through community service, education and social activities. It is meant to provide services for and meet the needs of Muslim students, represent them, and offer a strong social and spiritual network to strengthen their faith. More information about the MSA, its services, and Islam can be found at the the Muslim Students Association website.
Does MSA make any accommodations for students fasting during Ramadan?
During Ramadan, members meet to break their fast (Iftar) followed by prayers. Food and prayer arrangements are organized by the MSA.
What is the Muslim world?
The Muslim world is a term coined by journalists in European countries who are referring to countries with predominantly Muslim populations. This includes African countries, from Mauritania and Morocco to Sudan, to Middle Eastern countries to Central Asian and Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia and Indonesia. Islam is the second largest religion in the world and has a very diverse membership.
What is Jihad and why do we always hear Muslims associated with that term?
The word Jihad means struggle. Any struggle done in day–to–day life to please God can be considered Jihad. One of the highest levels of Jihad is to stand up to a tyrant and speak a word of truth. Control of the self from wrong doings is also a great Jihad. Today’s political situation in predominantly Muslim countries brings the word jihad to its most extreme definition. Right wing adherents will justify certain actions, claiming they are striving in the cause of God, otherwise referred to as jihad. This form of jihad is very severe and today’s actions committed in that name are condemned by the majority of the Muslim community and Muslim leaders in the world.
Do you need to know Arabic to be a Muslim?
The majority of Muslims in the world are not Arab. You do not need to know Arabic to be a Muslim but many Muslims do try to learn the language because of the Qur’an, the holy book for Muslims. The Qur’an was revealed in the Arabic language, and for Muslims who wish to attain a better understanding of the Qur’an, learning Arabic is an important tool in doing so. Muslims also recite some of the Qu’ranic verses in Arabic during their prayer as well.