Schools in and around Washington DC are increasing programmes in schools to educate children about the Islam. As the holy month of Ramadan began recently, more schools are hosting celebrations to help children from all backgrounds to understand each others' cultural and religious celebrations.

Muslim pupils have expressed happiness with the inclusion of their culture in school activities. Fatima Showkatian, a 13-year-old from Thoreau Middle School in Vienna, Maryland, says she feels more comfortable with classmates when they understand a little bit about her background: `I kind of like when someone explains to everyone about our traditions. It makes it easier for me.'