October 5 th, 2005
Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies Student Association
Welcome/Introductions
Brian Cotroneo, MEISSA President, welcomed everyone to the meeting. Introductions were made since there were some new members present.
October Events
- Stephen Karam, World Bank Senior Urban Economist, will speak on “Decentralization and Development in the Middle East.” Karam will likely speak on October 17 th, but there is a possibility the talk will be moved to October 24 th. The talk will be at 7pm, regardless of which day is chosen.
- West Beirut – dinner/movie, cosponsored with Arab Students Association (ASA). Date TBA.
- Discussion of the ASA gave rise to a question on the definition of MEISSA, in contrast to the ASA. Brian explained MEISSA’s role as an academic club, tied to the minor in Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies. In this way, it is different from the ASA, which is a cultural group. MEISSA is also apolitical, which distinguishes it from such groups as the Global Justice Project (pro-Palestinian) and Hillel (pro-Israel). MEISSA aims to foster discussion and raise awareness about issues relating to the Middle East.
November Events
- Minors Fair: November 2 nd, 5-7pm in Fulton Honors Common
- MEISSA Newsletter, first issue of 2005
- The focus of the issue will be BC students’ summer travels to the Middle East.
- Submissions will be made to Anna Cembrola (cembrola@bc.edu)
- Luma Kawar (tentative)
- Cultural event, night out (tentative)
Outreach/Service/Internships
Brian announced a separate meeting to be held soon with Mary Kayyal, the Outreach Coordinator, to discuss service and internship opportunities. He summarized a few of those options:
- Boston Dialogue Foundation:
- communication-based internship
- food drive during Ramadan
- David Project (Israeli Advocacy Group): fall internship to include research, writing, and office work
Suggestions/Brainstorm
- Divorce, Iranian Style – movie viewing and discussion led by students and/or faculty member(s) regarding Sharia Law
- Outreach project targeting local middle and high schools to raise awareness and interest Middle Eastern issues
- Look into connections with students in LSOE
- Break Ramadan fast at a local mosque
- Coordinate with Boston University Muslim Students Association
- Food at next meeting