Benjamin Wang
By Daily Bruin Staff
June 5, 1996 9:00 p.m.
Thursday, June 6, 1996
For those who think Muslims are solely from the Middle East,
think again. That is not the case for Benjamin Wang, a second-year
microbiology student and newly-elected president of the Muslim
Students Association (MSA).
"I was raised in a Muslim family," Wang said. "A major
misconception is that all Muslims are Arab … Asians make up a
large percentage of the world’s Muslims.
"I’m Chinese," Wang added. "And there are at least 50 million in
China. And that, in general, Asian Muslims are often represented in
American Muslim groups."
As the MSA’s new president, Wang said he will strive to inform
the community about Islam and erase negative stereotypes.
"Our goals are mainly to increase awareness and understanding
between non-Muslims and the Muslim community, and to dispel
misconceptions that we, as Americans, may have of Islam," he
said.
Furthermore, Wang hopes to develop stronger ties with other
student advocacy groups that have concerns similar to those of the
Muslim community.
While Wang has no formal plans to achieve these goals, he cited
different events the group has sponsored this year as examples of
positive steps toward broadening students’ understanding.
The association has worked on programs along with the African
Student Union to commemorate Malcolm X’s life. Also, this year the
associations have invited speakers to address the campus on issues
concerning the Muslim community.
"I feel an obligation to serve the Muslim community here on
campus," Wang said.
More profiles:
Josh Geffon, Jewish Student Union
Roselma Samala, Samahang Pilipino
Kandea Mosley, African Student Union
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