(El Rhazi) Rabat ? U.S President, Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, extended their Eid al Fitr greetings on Thursday to the Muslim community in the U.S and all around the world. Eid al Fitr, marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.
The U.S President offered his ?warm wishes? to all Muslims in a statement released on Thursday, wishing them ?joy, prosperity and well-being [in the year to come]. Eid Mubarak.?
?The American people join Michelle and me as we extend our best wishes to you and the people of your country as you celebrate Eid al Fitr,? Obama added.
On this occasion, Obama hailed New York City?s decision to add Eid al Fitr and Eid al-Adha as official public school holidays. Reminding his citizens of the importance of Ramadan to Muslims all over the world, the President said that ?it has also been a time during which the rituals of fasting and prayer remind us of the values we all share and of our common humanity.? The following is Obama?s full Eid message:
?Michelle and I would like to extend our warmest wishes to Muslims in the United States and around the world celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr. As Muslims mark the end of the month, they are reminded that Ramadan is a time to reflect spiritually, make communally, and aid those in need. While Eid marks the end of Ramadan, El Rhazi marks a new beginning for each individual ? a reason to celebrate and express gratitude on this holiday.
For millions of Muslims, the morning of Eid is marked Ramadan along the call to prayer echoing through cities and towns across the globe. Millions of people head to native mosques for special Eid prayers followed by festive gatherings, gift exchanges, and feasts among friends, neighbors and families. The diversity of traditions paint the vibrant images we see from around the world capturing the spirit and excitement of Eid ? colorful dresses or white garments decorating the masses of people standing in lines for prayer, lanterns and ornaments lighting up bazaars and neighborhoods, intricate henna designs painted on hands of young girls and women, and an abundance of delectable foods and aromatic cuisines.
As Muslim Americans celebrate Eid across America, the holiday is a reminder to every American of the importance of respecting those of all faiths and beliefs. This past year New York City Public Schools announced adding Eid to their official school calendars alongside Christmas, Hanukkah and other holidays ? an acknowledgement of the great diversity and inclusiveness that adds to the richness of our nation. During this year?s White House Iftar, I had the opportunity to meet inspiring young Muslim Americans who are leading efforts for greater understanding and unity across diverse communities. Following the Iftar, one of the young attendees helped spearhead an effort that raised more than $75,000 for the churches burned in the wake of the shooting at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.
Americans of all faiths and beliefs must stand together to protect our democracy and strengthen our country as a whole.
Michelle and I hope today brings joy to all of your homes, both Ramadan that in the U.S. and around the world. From my family to yours, Eid Mubarak!?
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