The Islamic World League hosted a Ramadan Iftar event in the United States Congress, bringing together various Islamic figures, followers of other religions, and members of Congress from both the Republican and Democratic parties. The goal was to strengthen bonds of understanding and coexistence among the Islamic community and followers of other religions, as part of the International League’s efforts to lead representing the Islamic peoples.
The Secretary General of the Islamic World League and President of the Muslim World League Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin AbdulKarim Al-Issa emphasized in a video message that the League seeks, through its religious events, to promote values of coexistence and cooperation between the Islamic community and others. He noted that hosting the Iftar dinner, the first of its kind in the month of Ramadan in Congress, with a significant attendance from various sectors of American society, represents a significant addition to enhancing the relationship of friendship and mutual trust in American diversity.
He explained that inviting non-Muslims to this event aims to convey the meaning of the month of Ramadan, the month of fasting which reflects a deep understanding of this ritual. He stated, “Ramadan allows us to appreciate God’s blessings and acknowledge the suffering of the less fortunate in this world. At the same time, it is a test of piety, self-discipline, and commitment to obeying God through fasting in this month.”
In turn, Senior Advisor to the President of the United States for Religious Affairs at the White House, Paula White, confirmed that President Donald Trump understands the importance of respecting religious diversity in the United States, a country founded on this basis and “enshrined in the First Amendment of the American Constitution”.
Among the prominent speakers were religious leaders for members of Congress in the House of Representatives, such as Margaret Kibbe, Republican Congressman Joe Wilson from South Carolina, Democratic Congresswoman April McClain Delaney from Maryland, White House Director of Religious Affairs Jennifer Korn, as well as representatives of other faiths, diplomatic corps, and workers in the U.S. Congress. Various Islamic figures also spoke with noble intentions during the Iftar program.
