In our increasingly interconnected day and age, there is priceless value in our ability to understand and appreciate each other. Islam is a religion that is becoming more and more relevant with every passing day. The variety of courses offered at the University provides students with essential exposure needed to build a society of tolerance and acceptance. Reducing the number courses, or subtracting courses from the class schedule on the immense topic of Islam does nothing to develop this society and in fact, hinders social progress. The purpose of this petition is not to criticize the department, but to express the high demand for Islamic Studies courses to be offered at the same level of variety and quality. Below are the signatures of some University of Illinois students who feel the same way.