President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden have greeted Muslims across the United States and the world at the advent of Ramadan. The holiest month on the Islamic calendar will start in much of the US tomorrow, April 13th.
“Jill and I send our warmest greetings and best wishes to Muslim communities in the United States and around the world. Ramadan Kareem,” said a statement issued by the White House on the eve of Ramadan.
This is the second Ramadan Muslims are observing during the pandemic. The president referred to the numerous difficulties and challenges the pandemic has brought to peoples lives. “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”.
He said American Muslim communities will 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.”
He said Muslim Americans have enriched the United States since its founding. They are as diverse and vibrant as the America they have helped build. Today, he added, Muslims are leading in our efforts to fight COVID-19, playing a pioneering role in vaccine development and serving as frontline health care workers. They are creating jobs as entrepreneurs and business owners, risking their lives as first responders, teaching in our schools, serving as dedicated public servants across the nation, and playing a leading role in our ongoing struggle for racial equity and social justice.
But still, he pointed out, Muslim Americans continue to be targeted by bullying, bigotry, and hate crimes. ‘This prejudice and these attacks are wrong. They are unacceptable. And they must stop. No one in America should ever live in fear of expressing his or her faith. And my administration will work tirelessly to protect the rights and safety of all people.”
The President recalled that on his first day in the office he ended the “shameful” Muslim travel ban, adding he would continue to stand up for human rights everywhere, including for Uyghurs in China, Rohingya in Burma, and Muslim communities all over the world.
“As we remember those who we have lost since last Ramadan, we are hopeful for brighter days ahead. The Holy Qur’an reminds us that “God is the light of the heavens and earth,” who leads us out of darkness to the light. Although our White House festivities will be held virtually this Ramadan, Jill and I look forward to resuming the traditional White House Eid celebration in person next year, inshallah. We wish your families an inspiring and rewarding month.”