In line with the value of compassion, the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) held its inaugural Eid with Refugees campaign, offering refugees and asylum seekers chance to experience the joyous celebrations associated with the feast.
Held from July 1-3, `Eid with Refugees events followed Refugee Week 2023 (19th-25th June), which was rooted in the theme of compassion, MCB said in a statement.
Participant highlights included the Khizra Mosque in north Manchester, the Nottingham Council of Mosques, the East Midlands Malayali Muslim Association, and other mosques.
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“As we witness the gathering of diverse Muslim communities from around the world, it is important for us to extend a warm welcome to newer members of our communities,” Secretary General Zara Mohammed said.
“It is fitting that we come together to celebrate this holy occasion, especially as many refugees are Muslim and have fled conflict in countries such as Afghanistan and Syria.
“We must challenge the divisive political rhetoric surrounding refugee communities and remember that no human being is illegal. This festival serves as a reminder to us all to continue advocating for the rights and inclusion of marginalized refugee communities.”
Promoting Compassion
Coming together through this initiative, the MCB said it “aims to strengthen the ties that bind; promote compassion over cruelty, hospitality over hostility and create an environment of welcome and acceptance for all.”
“I express my gratitude to all those who participated in the campaign and to everyone who attended the celebrations,” Mohammed said.
“It was truly heartwarming to witness communities breaking bread and uniting in solidarity. I hope that such initiatives will serve as inspiration for positive action and foster meaningful dialogue.”
The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) is the UK’s largest and most diverse national Muslim umbrella organization with over 500 members including mosques, schools, charitable associations and professional networks.