As millions of Muslims commenced today (Tuesday) the Ramadan fasting, world leaders have started sharing warm messages to welcome the holy month.
From the US, President Joe Biden and first lady sent their “warmest greetings and best wishes to Muslim communities in the United States and around the world.”
“As many of our fellow Americans begin fasting tomorrow, we are reminded of how difficult this year has been,” they said in a statement Monday, The Hill reported.
“In this pandemic, friends and loved ones cannot yet gather together in celebration and congregation, and far too many families will sit down for iftar with loved ones missing.”
Ramadan is the holiest month in Islamic calendar. It starts this year on Tuesday, April 13.
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The Bidens said in the message that “our Muslim communities begin the month of revelation with renewed hope.”
“Many will focus on increasing their consciousness of the presence of God in their lives, reaffirming their commitment to the service of others that their faith compels, and expressing gratitude for the blessings they enjoy—health, well-being, and life itself,” they said.
Biden added that this year’s Ramadan and Eid festivities in the White House will be held virtually, promising to resume “the traditional White House Eid celebration in person next year, inshallah,” using the Arabic word for “God willing.”
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UK & Canada
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also welcomed the holy month of Ramadan with a special message to Muslims in his country and around the world.
“While COVID-19 may keep us from gathering in person this Ramadan, it can’t stop Muslims from celebrating the values at the heart of Islam. To everyone doing that at home and online, Sophie and I are wishing you peace and happiness. Ramadan Mubarak!” he said in a statement.
While COVID-19 may keep us from gathering in person this Ramadan, it can’t stop Muslims from celebrating the values at the heart of Islam. To everyone doing that at home and online, Sophie and I are wishing you peace and happiness. Ramadan Mubarak! https://t.co/MHHf86qko8 pic.twitter.com/dLsCLzmTJl
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 12, 2021
Trudeau praised Canadian Muslim efforts in the fight against COVID-19.
“Over the coming month, while fasting during the daytime, many Muslim Canadians will continue to be on the front lines of our fight against COVID-19. During these exceptional times, I invite all Canadians to recognize the many contributions Muslim communities have made to our country since the pandemic began, as they have for many generations.”
The British Prime Minister also shared a message to Muslims, reminding everyone in the country to observe social distancing rules.
“Ramadan Mubarak to all those observing Islam’s holiest month this year. I’m afraid that again this year it is necessary to follow the rules to stay safe but I hope this month of fast, prayer and charity brings much peace and reflection to all Muslims,” Boris Johnson said on Twitter.
Ramadan Mubarak to all those observing Islam’s holiest month this year.
I’m afraid that again this year it is necessary to follow the rules to stay safe but I hope this month of fast, prayer and charity brings much peace and reflection to all Muslims.
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) April 12, 2021
The three Muslim members of Congress — Reps. André Carson (D-Ind.), Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) — shared messages marking Ramadan on social media on Monday.
#RamadanMubarak! As Muslims around the world embark on this holy month, let us recommit to our faith and to the good work we are called to do. Now more than ever, we must embrace peace, kindness, and charity towards all people. pic.twitter.com/AQOKFqZtU5
— André Carson (@RepAndreCarson) April 12, 2021
As Ramadan starts, let’s reflect on the ways we can better ourselves and protect our communities against injustices, especially our Black brothers and sisters.
Ramadan Mubarak.
— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) April 12, 2021
To all my Muslim neighbors, I wish you a peaceful, healing, and transformative Ramadan. I hope this holy month allows us to embody our faith through acts of service for those in need.
Ramadan Kareem ☪️
— Rashida Tlaib (@RashidaTlaib) April 12, 2021