The Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA) is arranging for the construction of a footbath in the south end of the Norm Fenn gym for students to use before the Muslim prayer Jumaa each Friday.
CUSA president Erik Halliwell said the goal is to have the project completed in time for the start of the fall semester.
CUSA will pay an estimated $2,450 towards the project but the university will cover labour costs, Halliwell said.
Mozynah Nofal, vice-president (external) of the Muslim Students Association (MSA) said that the MSA has more than 500 members and is one of the largest clubs at Carleton.
He said 200 – 300 students attend Jumaa prayer each Friday during the fall and winter semesters. Traditionally, the students wash their arms, face, hands and feet prior to attending prayers.
The department of athletics has offered the custodial room as a space to install the footbath because it can accommodate a large number of students.
“[We’re] happy to hear the news,” said Nofal. “Carleton is finally coming around; this is a step forward to the needs of Muslim students and societies.”
Carleton student, Aarash Rafiaie, said he thinks the footbath is a great idea.
“It shows how Carleton understands and recognizes the several different nationalities and religions its students represent. It shows diversity and [is] a symbol of belonging to all the students that will use it.”
The prayer room in the University Centre and the MSA’s services are open to all students, Nofal said, and the footbath will be too.