On
behalf of the American people, Michelle and I extend our best wishes to
Muslim communities here in the United States and around the world on
the beginning of the blessed month of Ramadan.A
time for self-reflection and devotion through prayer and fasting,
Ramadan is also an occasion when Muslims around the world reaffirm their
commitment to helping the less fortunate, including those struggling
because of economic hardship and inequality. Here in the United States,
we are grateful to the many Muslim American organizations, individuals,
and businesses that are devoted to creating opportunity for all by
working to reduce income inequality and poverty, not only through their
charitable efforts, but also through their initiatives to empower
students, workers and families with the education, skills and health
care they deserve.
Ramadan
also reminds us of our shared responsibility to treat others as we wish
to be treated ourselves and the basic principles that bind people of
different faiths together: a yearning for peace, justice, and
equality. At a moment when too many people around the world continue to
suffer from senseless conflict and violence, this sacred time reminds
us of our common obligations to pursue justice and peace and to uphold
the dignity of every human being.
As I’ve
done every year as President, I look forward to welcoming Muslim
Americans from across the United States to the White House for an iftar
dinner. It will be another opportunity for me to convey America’s
appreciation for the contributions of Muslim Americans to our country
and to wish Muslims around the world a month blessed with the joys of
family, community, peace and understanding. Ramadan Kareem
