TORONTO – Canadian Muslims across the country are celebrating `Eid Al-Fitr on Wednesday, July 6, as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sent greetings to the community thanking them for their tremendous contributions in building the nation.

“Today, Muslims in Canada and around the world will gather to celebrate the end of the holy month of Ramadan and to give thanks for the spiritual renewal and many blessings received throughout the holy month,” said the Prime Minister in a special video message.

“`Eid Al-Fitr is a time to strengthen family ties, renew friendships, and show compassion and humanity towards those in need both in local communities and around the world.”

“To mark this important occasion, Muslims attend special morning prayers, exchange greetings and gifts, and share a special celebratory meal – their first daytime meal in a month,” added Prime Minister Trudeau. “On this day, let us thank Canada’s vibrant Muslim community for its tremendous contributions to the shaping and building of our great nation. Our cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and a source of pride.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I extend our best wishes to all those celebrating `Eid Al-Fitr in Canada and around the world. `Eid Mubarak!”

Provincial leaders have also sent best wishes to the Muslim community.

“With `Eid, Ramadan comes to an end alongside friends and family, celebrating their faith, each other and the first daytime meal in a month,” said Premier Christy Clark of the province of British Columbia in her message to Muslims.

“Whether they have been here for generations, or are some of our newest citizens, I wish Muslim families throughout B.C. a joyous celebration. `Eid Mubarak!”

Generous Month

Throughout Ramadan, political leaders across the country hosted Iftar (fast-breaking meal) at the federal and provincial parliaments.

Some leaders joined the Muslim community for Iftar in mosques.

Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne joined Muslims in fasting on Wednesday, June 22nd and then took part in the Iftar with the community at the Sayeda Khadija Centre in Mississauga.

“I am honored to participate in the fast with you,” said Premier Wynne.

“3:30 am is a long time ago,” she said referring to the time when the fast began. “The devotion in Ramadan is not easy.”

“Ramadan is a reflection on giving to those in need,” added the Premier.

Premier Kathleen Wynne thanked the Muslim community for their generosity.

“Generosity is a defining feature of the Muslim community,” said the Premier. “According to the Qur’an, even the smallest act of kindness is recognized.”

Muslims are the fastest growing religious community in Canada, according to the country’s statistical agency, Statistics Canada.

Canada’s Muslim population increased by 82 percent over the past decade – from about 579,000 in 2001 to more than 1 million in 2011.

Muslims represent 3.2 percent of Canada’s total population.

According to a recent survey, the vast majority, 83 percent of Muslims feel very proud to be Canadian.