US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden Monday afternoon (12/4) wished all Muslim communities in America and around the world their best wishes for the holy month of Ramadan.
Biden referred to the pandemic conditions that have left so many families fasting “without their loved ones.”
“However, our Muslim community begins the month of revelation with renewed hope. Many are increasing their awareness of God’s presence in their lives, reaffirming their commitment to serving others driven by their faith, and showing gratitude for the blessings they enjoy – health , well-being and life itself,” Biden said in a statement.
Biden further conveyed how Muslim-Americans have enriched America since the country was first founded. He also mentioned the efforts of Muslim citizens to participate in eradicating Covid-19, playing an important role in developing vaccines and as health care workers on the front lines, as well as public servants in various other fields; “play a major role in the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice.”
“Yet Muslim Americans continue to be targets of bullying (bullying targets), bigotry and hate crimes. These prejudices and attacks are wrong. This is unacceptable. This must be stopped. No one in America should live in fear of expressing his beliefs. The government alone is working tirelessly to protect the rights and security of all citizens,” Biden said.
Biden underlined how on his first day in office he ended “travel tires” or travel bans for Muslims which are “shameful.”
Biden vowed to continue to defend human rights everywhere, including the rights of the Uighurs in China, the Rohingya in Burma and Muslim communities around the world.
“When we remember those who have left us since last Ramadan, we hope for brighter days to come,” Biden said.
President Joe Biden also quoted a verse in Surah An Nur verse 35 that “Allah is the giver of light in the heavens and the earth”, who guides us out of darkness.
Celebrations at the White House are currently still being held virtually, but at the end of his statement he said, “God willing, Jill and I hope to be able to hold a live Eid celebration at the White House next year.” [em/lt]