Polynesian Culture... Aloha!

This week's topic is focused on a culture that is very dear to me, the Polynesian Culture. So I will be mixing things up a little and will share some of my favorite parts about my culture and how I will able to apply it to my nursing care.


ALOHA!
Most people are familiar with this famous phrase, but within the in Polynesian Culture, warm greetings are a cherished part of the culture. The word "Aloha" can mean many things, but most commonly it means hello, goodbye, and love. By using this expression with friends, family, and even strangers it shows trust, friendship, love, kindness, affection, and compassion. Interestingly enough, visitors who go to the Hawaiian islands must abide by the spirit of Aloha by sharing good feelings amongst one another. So whenever an someone shares the expression of Aloha, it is expected to reciprocate the same warm greeting.

This is me and my handsome husband who has now become very much apart of the Polynesian Culture ;) 

One of my favorite parts of the Polynesian Culture is their love for music and dance. Polynesians thrive to share their love of the island and their heritage with visitors through music, dance, food, and fun. Because there are numerous islands within the Polynesian Culture, there many differences in where islanders originate from. Regardless of what island an individual comes from, there is a sense of pride instilled in being apart of the Polynesian Culture as a whole. In addition to these differences in where islanders originate from, each bring their own culture, history, and style of dance into the overall Polynesian Culture. One dance that is most commonly heard of and seen is the hula. This traditional dance in Hawaii expresses the spirit of Hawaii through graceful and beautiful movements. Each movement of the hands or the swaying of hips share representations and stories of ancient times. The hula is rooted within the religion of the natives and is believed the be first performed by the Gods and Goddesses, thus this dance is considered a very sacred ritual. Because dance and music plays such a strong role within the culture, most islanders are expected to learn how to dance in order to pass these ancient traditions down generation to generation.

This image is from when I danced in the Snow College Luau (I'm the tall one in the middle)

Another thing the Polynesian Culture is widely known for is their love for food. It is no secret that Polynesians take strong pride in how they prepare and serve their food. One of my favorite dishes involves Auntie's Mac salad, Kalua pork, fried spam, chicken long rice, and of course; fresh pineapple! (I seriously could eat this everyday!) Now because the islands of Hawaii include such diverse ethnicities all who add their own flavors, styles, and ingredients the tastes of the Polynesian Culture seem to become more vibrant and tasty! Food serves as a way to gather friends, family, and strangers together to share the spirit of the Polynesian Culture.

This is Auntie's Kalua pork, Mac Salad, teriyaki chicken, and seasoned fruit.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY
I think because the Polynesian Culture is something I understand and am apart of, I will be able to use this knowledge to help me understand more about other cultures. I also think that I will be able to apply my culture by sharing it with others and helping coworkers, friends, and patients know more about my own culture. I think by sharing our own cultures with others we are able to help change stereotypes and increase cultural awareness. I think if we understand other individuals cultures we are more able to give better care and find ways to connect with our patients.  Additionally, I believe that each health care providers can have a large positive effect on cultural care by simply recognizing others and their cultural beliefs and practices.



Courtney's "Two-Cent's" Cheeeeeee-Hooooooo!!!!
In all honesty I have been waiting all semester to talk about the Polynesian Culture, simply because I am personally tied and connected to this culture. I have such a love and pride for the Polynesian people and I want to continue to share my love for the culture by leaving my positive influence on others.  It is my hope that as I go throughout my life I will be able to leave a happy and positive impression on the Polynesian Culture. What a joy it has been to be apart of this class to be able to learn more about all the other cultures, and gain a better understanding of how I can improve my cultural awareness.

Here are some images from my experiences in dancing in Luau's 

References:
http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/hacul/beliefs.htm
All images personal owned.

Asian Culture

This week's culture was focused on the Asian Culture. In this reflection journal I will discuss some cultural family and communication practices, and how it we use this knowledge as health care professionals.


Lesson's Learned: Asian Culture
This week I focused my search on the role of family within the Asian Culture. I've noticed within all my research on the many different cultures, how much family plays a large role on cultural practices. Within the Asian culture the family plays a vital role in one's identity and acts as a protection against trials in life. One key factor to family is, loyalty. This factor along with respect is important within the family dynamics. So if an individual's behavior disrupts the family harmony or brings disgrace into the family, that individual is severely dishonored. Another critical component to the family, is being respectful and abiding to any elders/parents requests and demands. Within this rule of being respectful, it is common practice to only speak when spoken to, or only talk if it's of high importance. Additionally, it is believed that Asian individuals must always show and demonstrate the utmost self-control. It may be common to see Asian patients unwilling to show strong emotions such as pain within the healthcare setting. Due to their family and cultural dynamics most Asian individuals will strive to be stoic-like, which may making interpreting their needs difficult.

Another component to the Asian Culture is a lack of directness within conversations. Within the Asian Culture, it is essential to "keep the peace" and preserve harmony between people. Thus, Asian individuals may be indirect when answering questions to avoid possible harsh feelings. Additionally, the Asian language consists of high context communication. Within their language, there are certain factors within communication that are just as important as actual words. Factors such as eye contact, body gestures, pitch, use of silence, intonation, and word stress play a major role in communication. In most cases, Asians are very concerned with being socially polite with their encounters with others. However, within the American Culture, it is more common for people to participate in low context communication techniques, and most are comfortable with direct questions and answers. Whereas Asian's, may not be comfortable with abrupt and direct questions. Asian individuals may show hesitation when direct questions are asked and may give polite smiles and head-nodding when they may not understand. This polite cultural practice, may be misunderstood to doctors and healthcare professionals as an agreement or understanding of care. When working with Asian patients, it will be important to understand smiling may not indicate complete understanding.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY
Now knowing more about some of common the Asian Cultural beliefs, I think making sure there is an understanding when communicating with Asian families and patients is very important. Additionally, being conscious of how Asian's communicate will be helpful in knowing if the patient understands or is actually confused about a treatment or diagnosis. It will also be important to give the patient adequate time for silence and time for reflection on things that have be talked about. Understanding possible cultural barriers with Asian patients will be important to know and understand in order to give the best care possible.

Courtney's "Two-Cent's" 
After these many weeks of learning about different cultures, I've noticed recognizing and understanding a patient's cultural background is the key to being able to communicate effectively. I've also noticed how much the family influences each culture differently, but overall it is a crucial component to culture. As nurses we must be able to accommodate our approach to fit the cultural needs of our patients and their family members. I hope that after all the things I've learned about all these cultures I will be able to use this knowledge and apply it to my nursing care. I plan to continue developing an awareness for Asian family cultures, to help me understand better how to approach care and recognize ways to adapt to their cultural practices.

References:
http://www.dimensionsofculture.com/2010/10/cultural-values-of-asian-patients-and-families/
Pictures taken from: https://webapp2.wright.edu/web1/newsroom/2011/04/26/wsu-celebrates-asian-culture/asianculture8/
http://asiasociety.org/texas/events/family-day-chinese-culture
http://english.china.com/chinese/everyday/

Judaism

This week's culture is focused on the Jewish Culture. I was interested to know more about basic Jewish beliefs and cultural practices. This week I will discuss the things I learned and how it will apply to my nursing practice. 


Lesson's Learned: Jewish Culture
Within the Jewish Culture there are many traditional holidays. One popular holiday is the "Passover." This holiday is celebrated to remember the story in Exodus and when Moses lead his people out of Egypt and away from slavery. Many Jewish individuals will hold a large feast in remembrance of the sacred day. Within the Jewish Culture the Passover holiday last for about 7-8 days (depending on where the Jewish individual lives) and there is a specific order for all events throughout the holiday. The Passover "Seder" is a ritual feast that usually marks the start of the Passover holiday. During this feast many gather together both friends and family to share ancient stories of the land of Israel and eat traditional foods in celebration of their freedom. 

Another Jewish Cultural practice I researched this week, was Jewish beliefs regarding the Sabbath Day.  Each week, their Holy Day begins from sundown on Friday evening until Saturday at sundown. During their "Holy Day" it is thought to be forbidden to perform certain "work" tasks. Additionally, it's believed that they are not allowed to request others to perform work for them. But they are allowed to give hints in what they need. Work tasks include initiating the flow of electricity, such as: turning on a light switch, pushing the call light, changing the bed position, operating a PCA pump, etc. They are not allowed to engage in any work-related activity/task. The Sabbath day is a very sacred and holy day for Jewish individuals. Thus it's important to be respectful to Jewish people who choose to worship on those days. 

#nursingbyCOURTNEY.... How to apply this knowledge to your nursing care
While not all Jewish individuals will practice strict Sabbath Day restrictions or participate in the Passover holiday, it's important to let people practice how they choose. Caring for patients of different nationalities and beliefs will involve knowing their religious and cultural backgrounds. It's important as nurses to understand what restraints cultures may have to be able to understand how to proceed with care.  By understanding what and why they believe certain things will be helpful in knowing how to give these patients the best care possible. For example, we will better be able to pick up on hints they give in regards to helping them in tasks they need during the Sabbath. Also knowing about their Sabbath Day beliefs will help us to remember not to schedule medical procedures during this time (unless they are emergent) or discharging without prior consent. 



Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Learning about the Jewish Culture has been very interesting. Not only did I learn more about their Sabbath Day beliefs and holiday practices, I also learned about their dietary restrictions. It was interesting to know that there are forbidden animals that they are not allowed to eat. This restriction includes refraining from eating the organs, flesh, milk and eggs of the forbidden animal. Along with these restrictions there are specific ways to eat accepted animals. The Jewish law states that, "birds or mammals must be killed in accordance to the Jewish law and all blood must be drained from the meat or cooked out of it before it is eaten." It is also believed that the meat of the mammal must not be eaten with dairy. Because of the restriction of not eating meat with dairy, the utensils that came in contact with either the dairy or meat must not be used. However, it is considered acceptable to eat fruit, vegetables, grains, eggs, and fish with their meat. 

There are many other rules and regulations of the Jewish diet, so it will be very important to have a background knowledge of common Jewish beliefs. Regardless of different opinions on how the Jewish practice their beliefs, as a health care providers we need to be considerate and respectful. Also I think it would be a good nursing practice to first ask, before assuming all Jew's believe and practice the same. I believe that the more we get to know our patients, we will be able to understand their personal beliefs and practices, and know better how to accommodate to their personal needs. 







References:
http://dinolingo.com/blog/2011/05/04/israeli-culture-for-children/#.WCdzV-ErKAw
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passover_Seder
http://nursing.advanceweb.com/Article/Care-of-the-Orthodox-Jewish-Patient.aspx
http://www2.kenyon.edu/Depts/Religion/Projects/Reln91/Blood/Judaism/kashrut/kashrut.htm
Picture taken from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bar_Mitzvah_a_Jewish_culture.jpg
http://www.cute-calendar.com/event/european-day-of-jewish-culture/19203.html
http://forward.com/news/132609/jewish-nursing-homes-embracing-a-new-model-of-care/

Native American Culture

This week's topic was based on the Native American Culture. During my research on this culture,  I realized how many tribes are within the Native American Culture. Because there are so many, I will discuss basic Native American Cultural beliefs and share how I will use this knowledge in my nursing care.

Lesson's Learned: Native American Culture
Prior to this week, I had no idea how many tribes there were within the Native American Culture. According to Running Strong for American Indian Youth they stated, "There are 566 federally recognized American Indian and Alaska Native tribes and villages in the United States, each with their own culture, language and history." In the article it expresses how every tribe may have specific traditions and unique styles of ways of living. Each tribe may eat, dress, and participate in cultural rituals differently than other tribes.

Within the Native American culture, it is believed that herbs have an affect on the soul or spirit of an individual. Both now and in the past, spiritual healing was believed to be performed by the tribe's Medicine Man or Shaman. These spiritual healing rituals involved the use of natural herbal remedies to aid Native American people in the healing and cleansing of the spirit. Most healing rituals are still being performed and play a large role within Native American medicine. Another cultural practice among Native American's is death rituals. It is believed that all death rituals have been passed down from generation to generation from their ancestors. It is a cultural belief, that death rituals focus on helping loved ones be more comfortable and protected in the journey to the afterlife. It's believed that when one passes, the spirit leader will perform the death ritual and ask the deceased ancestors to aid them throughout the ritual. Native American's will gather after a loved one has passed, and leave tools, weapons, pots, food, jewelry and other items in their grave to help the individual in the afterlife.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY.... how to use this info in your nursing care. 
Throughout all my studies and research in other cultures I've noticed each culture has specific beliefs and practices regarding death. It's been interesting to see how death influences one's religious and cultural beliefs. Because spiritually is a key factor in the Native American Culture it will be important to recognize their believes in healing and spiritual ceremonies. Its critical for healthcare providers be aware of their spiritual needs in order to provide culturally competent care. Although, not all rituals are allowed within the hospital setting, nurses should be advocates for adapting to these cultural practices and find possible options for clients to practice their spiritual beliefs. I think overall, if we are willing to be open and understanding to different religious or cultural practices we will be more able to become more culturally competent.

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Over the course of these several weeks I have learned so much about the many cultures out there. Not only have I become more aware of cultures, I have been able to reflect more on how I personally feel towards different cultures. I've noticed that the more I've learned about a specific culture the more my mind set has been able to change. Although I don't know many Native American individuals, I believe that they have a very interesting and fascinating history and culture. I hope that the more I come to know these individuals the more I will be able to understand and adapt to their cultural needs. Overall, I am so glad I took this course because I have felt an increased knowledge about how to give better care to my patients.

References:
Quote taken from: http://indianyouth.org/american-indian-life/traditions-culture
https://www.warpaths2peacepipes.com/native-american-culture/herbal-remedies.htm
http://dying.lovetoknow.com/native-american-death-rituals
Picture taken from: http://www.hmxuan.com/bwin/bwin+apk+download+android+apk+games2C+apps+for+baixar+bwin+casino+roulette
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/468796642433981715/
http://www.1011now.com/home/headlines/Nebraska-Nursing-Home-for-Native-Americans-to-Open-Next-Year-323999991.html

Deaf Culture

This week's culture topic is focused on the Deaf Culture. I have been really excited about learning more about this culture! Within this week's reflection journal, I will talk about things I learned and how I improve with this knowledge. 


Lesson's Learned: Deaf Culture
Before I talk about the Deaf Culture, I thought it would be important to clarify some common misconceptions regarding the definitions of hearing function. The word "Deaf" refers to individuals who have little to no hearing function. This may be caused by genetic or environmental factors, injury, and disease. Many deaf individuals communicate with the ASL language (American Sign Language.) Another term to know is "hard of hearing" which refers to people who have not lost complete hearing function and can still hear with mild to moderate difficulty. Individuals who are hard of hearing may be able to communicate with sign language and or the spoken language. Lastly it is important to note, that the term "hearing impaired" may be considered offensive when used in describing Deaf and hard of hearing people. Many Deaf or hard of hearing individuals do not appreciate being labeled as impaired, thus it is very important to conscience of how we describe others. 

The Deaf Culture is comprised of individuals within the Deaf community who share similar beliefs, values, norms, heritage, language, attitudes, and traditions. Individuals who identify within this community may choose to be apart of it regardless of their hearing status. However, the community is commonly comprised of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, as well as family members and people who work with Deaf individuals. The World Federation of the Deaf explained, "Deaf people have their own local, national and international organizations around the world, which might be social, athletic, scholarly, religious, and/or literary." People within this culture have built a great community of unity, support, and friendship. 

#nursingbyCOURTNEY: How to apply this knowledge to provide better care to patients
Within nursing school we have been taught effective communication critical to becoming a good nurse. It's important because it help insure safety for ourselves as well as our patients. We've also learned how if there are gaps within communication poor outcomes can result. While caring for Deaf patients there may be barriers to effective communication, thus resulting in possible patient dissatisfaction and negative outcomes. I believe because nurses do not receive proper training on how to communicate with Deaf patients there continues to be ineffective communication. As a result, our Deaf patients may suffer the consequences due to a lack of understanding of their exact needs. Ultimately, I think it's up to us to do our best to provide adequate communication to our Deaf and hard of hearing patients. 

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Honestly, I believe this culture is one that gets disregarded quickly. Most individuals don't think twice about the Deaf Culture and their needs. I guiltily fall into this category of cultural neglect. Until this week I didn't know Deaf was considered a culture! So this week I was very excited to get the opportunity to learn more about this culture and how I can be more aware. In all my research, I have noticed the lack of public and professional awareness of the Deaf Culture and community. Yet, another reason I am grateful for this class, and how it has helped me learn and becoming more aware of all the cultures out there! I think it's important more people become aware of this culture to be more mindful of Deaf individuals. Although bringing awareness may not entirely solve the neglect these individuals receive, it may help health professionals improve their approach to care and communication. In my research, I have found that getting an interpreter is one of the most helpful tools to provide better communication. Resorting to writing and giving handouts may be considered offensive and ineffective. As we care for Deaf or hard of hearing patients, we need to be mindful of their cultural practices and make sure they do not feel labeled as "impaired" in our approach of care.

References: 

Defintions taken from: https://www.deaftec.org/content/deaf-definitions

https://wfdeaf.org/our-work/focus-areas/deaf-culture

Pictures taken from: http://www.tlcdeaf.org/

https://www.partnershipfca.com/programs/deaf-services/

https://www.dccc.edu/news/2015/08/06/first-its-kind-program-trains-deaf-students-work-nurse-aides-deaf-elderly-residents

Hispanic & Latino Culture

This week's culture topic is based off of the Hispanic and Latino Cultures. In my reflection I will talk about some facts I've learned about the culture and how it applies to me.

Lesson's Learned: Hispanic and Latino Culture
Before I discuss cultural practices, I think is important to understand the difference between Hispanics and Latinos. According to Marcia Carteret in the Dimensions of Culture she explained that the term, "Latino denotes all persons living in the United States whose origins can be traced to the Spanish-speaking regions of Latin America, including the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and South America." Whereas the term "Hispanic" mainly focuses on the Spanish-speaking origin. Simply put... Being Hispanic is based on if you or family speaks the Spanish language, and latino is based off of geographic location. It is important not to immediately assume one is Hispanic simply because they speak spanish.

Within the Hispanic and Latino culture, family is very important. Throughout history, these cultures value family relationships and the role of each family member. For example, one's status within the family is based off one's age and gender. The role of the father in both cultures is believed to be occupied with respect and authority. Because a father is thought to be strong, honorable, courageous, the father is ultimately responsible for providing and protecting the family. Traditional practices of males have encouraged fathers to uphold the ideal of "Machismo." This term refers to aggressive and masculine attributes, men were expected to live up to. Because of this common traditional practice, women were also expected to honour male figures by showing respect and submission to husbands and fathers. Another common cultural practice among Latinos, is their concept of time. It is common within this culture to have a very relaxed and laid back attitude towards time. Most Latinos do not value punctuality and think of time as flexible, this mindset is very accepted within the Latino community. Within healthcare it will be common to see this types of cultural practices.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY.... How to apply this cultural knowledge to your nursing practice
It's no surprise that our country has become immersed with many different cultures and ethnicities. Thus the reason for nurses to learn how to be culturally competent. In 2004, it has been estimated that 55.3 million Hispanics reside in the US, which comprises of 17.3% of the total population in the United States. Knowing that these statistics are drastically increasing, it would be wise for healthcare professionals to understand the importance of respecting and recognizing cultural diverse individuals. Additionally, understanding basic cultural practices of Hispanic and Latino cultures will be a helpful component in practicing culturally competent care. I believe it will be especially important to recognize the role family plays within this culture. Because Latinos and Hispanics make decisions as a family, it will be important for the nurse to include teaching to the patient and family members. I believe if we involve the family members in the plan of care, establishing and building trust will become easier and patients may be more compliant.

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"
Like I stated previously, our country is drastically changing and becoming more and more diverse. I believe it is up to us healthcare professionals, to become more educated on different cultures to know better how to practice culturally competent care. I also believe if we are able to identify cultural patterns, our care will be more individualized to meet our patient's overall needs.

This week as I was researching more about this culture, I started reflecting on WHY I became a nurse. I'm sure I'm not the only nursing student who feels completely overwhelmed with the heavy workload demands. But through it all, I've developed a new way of viewing people. Instead of seeing individuals with a problem to fix, I see people as someone's daughter, friend, brother, etc. I see people as...individuals who matter. This week I was reminded why it's important for me to continue learning about different cultures so I can help make people feel like they matter. This is one of the reasons why I am working so hard to become a nurse. I want to make a difference in individual's lives, and aid in holistic healing and well-being.

References: 

http://www.dimensionsofculture.com/2011/03/cultural-values-of-latino-patients-and-families/

Statistics from: http://www.pewhispanic.org/2016/04/19/statistical-portrait-of-hispanics-in-the-united-states-key-charts/

Pictures from: http://reachhispanic.com/2012/03/21/young-latinas-move-out-while-young-latinos-move-back-home/multi-generational-hispanic-family-preparing-food/

http://intranet.tdmu.edu.ua/data/kafedra/internal/i_nurse/classes_stud/ADN%20Program/Full%20time%20study/First%20year/fundamentals%20of%20nursing%20practicum/23.%20Caring%20in%20Nursing%20Practice...htm

https://www.theodysseyonline.com/tackling-the-lack-of-latino-representation-in-the-media

Muslim Culture

This week's reflection journal is about the Muslim Culture. In my reflections this week I will discuss what I have learned about their religious beliefs and I can use this knowledge to better my nursing practices.

Lesson's Learned: Muslim beliefs 

Muslims believe that their God Allah is their one and only true God. They believe that this God is a singular being and there are no others they worship. Allah is an Arabic name for God and a universal name in which they refer to their God. Muslims believe this God is the creator of all the universe and He is above all things. It is also believed they those who put God at a lesser state of being is committing sin.  By living through His principles and guidelines they aim to please Allah. 

Muslims also believe in being respectful to individuals who faithful and are conscious of God and are also considerate and kind in their dealing with non Muslims. With the requirement to be respectful to God fearing or conscience individuals they must work together to solve problems within their social surroundings. They honor others and try to do their best to contribute to building the societies in which they live. Muslims believe in giving charity to others in need and when they need it, being slow to anger in times of frustration and forgiving all who may wrong you. These acts are believed to exemplify Muslim beliefs in God’s principles of being selfless and surrendering oneself by doing good and serving others. Additionally, by living by these standards one can develop humility and be on good standing with God.

Within the Muslim culture there are five practices or Pillars that each member must do to be in accordance with Islam. These pillars are: Shahadah, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj. Each pillar represents obligations in which Muslims must perform within their lives to show their faith and devotion to their God. The Salat is the second Pillar within the five practices of Muslim beliefs and is a performance of Muslim ritual prayer which they perform five times a day. They believe that God has commanded them to give prayers at specific times of the day- sunrise, midday, afternoon, sunset and before midnight. These ritual prayers are believed to involve the mind, body and spirit through set actions in their prayers.

#nursingbyCOURTNEY... how to apply the understanding of Muslim beliefs into your nursing practice

In the world today there are many conflicts and stereotyping about the Muslim culture. In the healthcare practice individuals must set aside biases, harsh judgments, and political opinions. It is vital that nurses understand the Muslim religious and cultural practice to provide more holistic and patient centered care to Muslims without stereotyping.  One cultural practice nurses need to be aware of is how Muslim women prefer to have same gender doctors and healthcare providers. Out of respect for their cultural practices nurses must do their best to accommodate with these preferences and not portray judgments. Additionally, Muslim women have certain modesty beliefs which may be difficult to adjust to during certain physical exams. However, nurses must practice good communication skills and first always ask permission to uncover parts of the body for any medical reasons. Also it is good nursing practice to provide proper privacy during any exams or treatments. 

Courtney's "Two-Cent's"

It has been interesting to learn more about the Muslim culture and religious beliefs because it is somewhat new to me. While growing up I had a neighbor who was Muslim, but I was too young to understand what that meant or why it mattered. However, now as I am older I am realizing how common it is to have negative stereotypes associated with the Muslim culture. I believe that many people are quick to stereotype Muslim individuals because they have not taken the time to understand them or get to know them personally. As I have studied and learned more about the Muslim culture and beliefs, I have been able to rid some of my own misunderstandings about their culture. I think if more people spent time to get to know Muslim's personally they would give less cruel and unnecessary judgment’s and be more open to accepting Muslim people. 

References: 

Facts about Muslim beliefs found on http://www.dummies.com/religion/islam/islam-for-dummies-cheat-sheet/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Five_Pillars_of_Islam

Pictures taken from: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/formerlyfundie/the-call-for-christians-to-radically-love-our-muslim-neighbors/

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/sep/01/muslim-women-veil-integrate-study

http://dailymail.com.ng/here-is-the-muslim-population-in-the-36-states-of-in-nigeria/