Muharram of 2006 witnessed the Shi'a Muslim Students Association of the University of Arizona organize an effort to raise awareness about the personality of Husayn ibn Ali [a] and the historical significance of Karbala.  Their efforts consisted of distributing 400 custom designed water bottles briefly depicting the history of the struggle of Ashura, its main activists, and its global effect.  The initiative continued in 2007 with other universities, including Arizona State University, University of California- Irvine, and the University of California- San Diego, participating. Together, these student movements aimed at raising awareness about the sacrifice of the martyrs of Karbala.  Organizers believed this project would be crucial in highlighting the traditions of the followers of the Prophet Mohammad [s] and his Blessed Household [a].  Not only did this initiative encourage kindness to one's fellow human being and spread the language of kindness, it also paid homage to one of humanity's greatest sacrifice. 

 

Muharram 2008 approaches, and now these student groups have come together once again with plans of taking their initiative national.  They have titled their campaign "Water on Ashura" and hope to impact campuses across the U.S. and Canada. 

 

If you currently would like to participate, you can visit their website and join the national committee: http://wateronashura.com