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United States embraces Ramadan with iftar events
US President Barack Obama invited scores of Muslims for iftar on Sept. 2 and used the occasion to highlight contributions made by Muslims to American culture and stressed that Islam is part of the country. The president is not the only American official to meet with Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan.
Since the start of the holy month, many American cities have hosted events organized by municipal officials to show solidarity with the Muslim population. In addition, 25 mosques in Manhattan are offering fast-breaking dinners to their congregations throughout Ramadan.
An iftar event at The Malcolm X & Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center last week was hosted by Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer. Another fast-breaking dinner was previously organized by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Similarly, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz hosted tens of Muslims in the municipal building for an iftar for the sixth time since he came to office.
All the officials peppered their speeches during the events with words appropriate to Islam, such as “selamün aleyküm,” “Ramadan,” and “mubarak.” Observers believe such gestures serve to increase the understanding among followers of different religions.
The Manhattan iftar was held in a warm atmosphere, with borough officials endeavoring to make their guests feel at home. There were around 350 guests at the Malcolm X Center, who listened in silence to a recitation from the Quran before iftar.
The recitation was given by Erhan Yıldırım, a New York police officer of Turkish origin.
After the completion of the fast-breaking dinner, Stringer delivered a speech. “I am very happy to be here today. The iftar we are organizing for the second time this year is not solely a cultural activity. The holy month of Ramadan has provided us with the opportunity to convene,” he remarked. The borough president also presented plaques to some opinion leaders for their contribution to the American-Muslim community.
Brooklyn Borough President Markowitz hosted dozens of Muslims at the municipal building, the sixth event of its kind so far. The event was attended by around 250 guests. Markowitz chatted with his guests before the fast-breaking dinner and emphasized the importance of strong ties between followers of different religions.
Mayor Bloomberg conveyed warmth and fellowship for the Muslim community in the US during the New York City iftar event. “The ethnic and religious diversity of New York makes this city the most beautiful place in the world. In the name of all New York residents, I congratulate all Muslims on the advent of Ramadan. May you have a peaceful Ramadan,” he stated.
The Bronx borough is set to hold an iftar event on Sept. 16. The event is expected to draw huge interest among the Muslim community of the area.
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