TORONTO – On June 9, 2017, a first of its kind celebration themed, Fast in the 6, will take place at Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square. Coinciding with Ramadan, the event will celebrate the diversity of Toronto through the common experience of breaking of the Ramadan fast.

“It will be an event open for Torontonians of all backgrounds to take part and share in the spirit of the breaking of the fast which is common to many heritages and to enjoy an evening of entertainment and fireworks,” said the organizers of the Fast in the 6 event.

Fast in the 6 and its message, “Diversity – Unity – Prosperity“, is led by Toronto philanthropists, Dany and Lisa Assaf.

“Fast in the 6 aims to affirm the city of Toronto’s leadership as a major global center of both social and economic opportunity,” said Dany Assaf.

The event is open and free for everyone to take part in and share in the spirit of the breaking of the fast.

“Toronto’s greatest asset in today’s global economy is our foundation and history of inclusion and openness to a diversity of talent and ideas,” said Mayor John Tory. “Reaffirming that is important for the future prosperity of our great city.”

The evening will be hosted by Toronto’s own Mark Strong, Raptors home game host, and will feature fireworks accompanied by the TSO Chamber Soloists, pop artist Yuna who will perform her hit singles and famed comedian Mo Amer, who recently appeared on the Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

Strong, Diverse Canada

A portion of the event proceeds raised will be donated to the Toronto Daily Bread Food Bank and special guests will address the gathering.

“In Canada, diversity is our strength,” said Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada.

“This important event is a powerful example of the prosperity and unity that we can create when we come together.”

“Business in the 21st Century needs to be everybody’s business and create opportunity for each in order to generate greater prosperity for all,” added Dany and Lisa Assaf.

“Celebrating the Ramadan breaking of the fast is meant to be a powerful example of that opportunity for everyone and why Toronto is a city that represents that future today.”

“We look forward to having you join us on Friday, June 9, 2017 at Nathan Phillips Square to celebrate this message.”

According to astronomical calculations, the European Council for Fatwa and Research (ECFR) announced that Ramadan fasting will start in Europe on Saturday, May 27, 2017.

In Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset.

Muslims dedicate their time during the holy month to become closer to Allah through prayer, self-restraint and good deeds.

It is customary for Muslims to spend part of the days during Ramadan studying the Noble Qur’an.

Many men perform i`tikaf (spiritual retreat), spending the last 10 days of the month exclusively in the mosque.

For more information on the event, please visit www.fastinthe6.com