Some evenings fade quietly into memory, while others leave behind something far more lasting a shift, a connection, a sense of possibility. Sawa Iftar, hosted on Treaty One Territory at the historic Ukrainian Labour Temple, was one of those unforgettable nights. What began as a simple potluck transformed into a powerful evening of shared stories, cross-cultural connection, and radical togetherness.

A Night to Remember in Winnipeg

As the sun set over the still-chilly streets of Winnipeg, the room began to fill. The call to prayer resonated softly through the air, and with it came the scent of home-cooked dishes from across the world.

More than 100 guests gathered, filling the space with warmth and energy. Elders, youth, families, newcomers, long-time neighbours Muslims and non-Muslims alike took their seats at long, welcoming tables. Conversations sparked. Laughter bubbled up between bites.

This was "sawa," an Arabic word meaning "together." And together, we were creating something far greater than just a meal.

‍A Community Effort with Heart

Winnipeg Member of Parliament Leah Gazan opened the night with words of welcome and solidarity. Her message grounded the evening in the values of justice, community, and dignity for all.

Behind the scenes, the small but mighty Kahanee team, supported by Bridge and Mediation Services Winnipeg, worked tirelessly to make the night seamless.

We were joined by an incredible group of volunteers who arrived early to help with setup, food organization, guest registration, and cleanup. The event was also made possible thanks to generous support from Winnipeg FoodFare and the Donovan Toews Family Trust, who helped provide essential supplies.

Together, we created something sacred something only made possible through community care and collective effort.

Breaking Fast and Building Bridges

When the time came to break the fast, the atmosphere shifted. Guests passed around dates and water, and a shared reverence settled into the space. Plates were filled, hands extended, and quiet conversations deepened.

This night was never just about food.

It was about breaking down assumptions, building trust, and seeing one another fully. Strangers who had never met before found common ground through the simple act of sharing a table.

Many Faiths, One Table

What made this Iftar so unique was not just the diversity of food, but the diversity of faith, identity, and experience.

Among our guests were Muslims observing Ramadan, Christians and Jews experiencing their first Iftar, and others of different or no formal faith backgrounds who simply came with curiosity and open hearts.

Together, we created a space where no one had to perform, justify, or explain who they were. They just had to show up.

Stories That Move Us Forward

Throughout the evening, guests bravely shared their personal stories stories of migration, loss, belonging, spiritual searching, and community healing. These weren't formal presentations or polished speeches.

They were offerings. And each one was received with quiet gratitude.

At its core, Sawa Iftar was never just about the food. It was about connection. It was about building peace through storytelling, listening, and presence.

More Than an Event: An Invitation

As the night drew to a close, the takeaway was clear this wasn't just an event.

It was an invitation to imagine a different kind of community. One where strangers become neighbours, where difference is not just tolerated but celebrated, where peace is not an abstract concept but something built in real time, around real tables, in real places like this.

At Kahanee, we believe peace begins at the table. And there is always room for one more.

Looking Ahead

To everyone who joined us, thank you. Your presence, your warmth, and your willingness to show up made Sawa Iftar what it was.

To those who couldn't be there, we saved you a seat at the next one.

Let us continue to gather. Let us continue to share stories. Let us continue to build peace one meal, one moment, and one community at a time.

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