Ramadan is the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar and the month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the new moon. This year, Ramadan will span March 22nd to April 20th, depending on the moon sighting.
Ramadan is observed by fasting from all food and drinks from sunrise to sunset. Following sunset prayers, observers will gather in their homes for iftar, commonly known as breaking the fast, a meal that is regularly shared with friends and extended family and at mosques. The end of the Ramadan fast is celebrated as Eid al-Fitr, the “Feast of Fast-Breaking,” which is one of the two major religious holidays of the Islamic calendar.
Ramadan marks a sacred time of year for the Muslim community here in Canada and around the world. This month-long journey of fasting and prayer encourages spiritual growth, reflection and compassion for those less fortunate.
Let’s all take the opportunity that Ramadan provides to celebrate all that makes Canada unique and to remember our collective responsibility to fight Islamophobia and discrimination in all its forms.
Ramadan Mubarak!
