Dingell Recognizes Eid al-Fitr, the Conclusion of Ramadan

posted on: May 23, 2020

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) introduced a Congressional resolution recognizing Eid al-Fitr, offering best wishes and respects to all Muslims at the conclusion of Ramadan.

“The holy month of Ramadan is time for our Muslim friends and neighbors to reflect on the principles and values of community and compassion that is critical for our humanity,” said Dingell. “Even though this year’s circumstances keep us physically away, we can still come together through video chats and phone calls to join in the tradition of breaking bread and recognizing the important role of Muslim Americans in our communities.”

Original cosponsors of the legislation are Representatives Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ), Bobby Rush (D-IL), Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Andre Carson (D-IN), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Frank Pallone (D-NJ), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Judy Chu (D-CA), and Bill Pascrell (D-NJ).

Text of the resolution can be read here or below:

RESOLUTION

Recognizing the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, commending a month of fasting and spiritual renewal, and extending best wishes to Muslims in the United States and across the globe for a joyous and meaningful observance of Eid al-Fitr.

Whereas Ramadan is the holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide;

Whereas this month of sacrifice and contemplation began on the evening of Thursday, April 23, 2020, based on the visual sightings of the crescent moon;

Whereas Muslims in the United States and around the world observe Ramadan by fasting, emphasizing self-discipline, worship, charity, and reading the Holy Quran to improve patience, humility, and spirituality;

Whereas Ramadan continued until the evening of Saturday, May  23, 2020, with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr;

Whereas Eid al-Fitr begins each year with the sighting of the new moon, signifying a month long end to fasting and reflection for all Muslim followers;

Whereas it is estimated that there are approximately 1,800,000,000 Muslims worldwide;

Whereas over 4,500 Muslims serve on active duty and over 2,300 Muslims serve as selected reserve personnel in the United States Armed Forces;

Whereas the Muslim population has been growing in the United States and today’s American Muslim population is a tapestry of ethnic, racial, linguistic, social, and economic groups;

Whereas American Muslims have contributed to every part of society to make advancements in medicine, science, engineering, economics, sports, education, and the law; and

Whereas the observance of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan has concluded with Eid al-Fitr, a three-day celebration:

Now, therefore, be it resolved, that —

(1) to demonstrate solidarity with and support for members of the community of Islam in the United States and throughout the world, the House of Representatives recognizes the importance of the Islamic faith; and

(2) in observance of and out of respect for Ramadan tradition, the Muslim holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal, the House of Representatives offers its best wishes to all Muslims celebrating Eid al-Fitr, the conclusion of Ramadan, while also expressing its deepest respect to Muslims in the United States and worldwide on this important occasion.