(PHOTO: One of the Lower Mainland locations where Muslims held their Eid prayers on Monday morning was Newton Athletic Park. Photo by Mohammed Ahmed)
PRIME Minister Stephen Harper on Monday issued the following statement to mark Eid al-Fitr:
“Laureen and I would like to extend warm greetings to Muslims in Canada and around the world as they gather to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
“On this important occasion, Muslims gather with family and friends to celebrate the Feast of the Breaking of the Fast over a period of three days to give thanks for the spiritual renewal and blessings acquired over the past month. Eid al-Fitr is also a time of almsgiving towards those who are less fortunate than us, and when greetings and gifts are exchanged.
“Our country is home to more than one million Muslims, who play an important role in the shaping and building of the free, prosperous and peaceful pluralistic society that Canada is today.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I offer best wishes for health and happiness to all those celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
“Eid Mubarak!”
LEADER of the Official Opposition Tom Mulcair made the following statement:
“On behalf of all New Democrats, I would like to offer my best wishes to all Muslims in Canada celebrating Eid-al-Fitr that marks the end of the month of Ramadan.
Over the last month, Muslims around the world have honoured their faith and showed their generosity during Ramadan – a time of sharing and compassion.
On this occasion of Eid, New Democrats join Muslims in Canada as we renew our shared commitment to social justice, humanitarianism and peace, and celebrate cultural and religious diversity as fundamental Canadian values.
To everyone observing Eid al-Fitr, we wish you a wonderful celebration. Eid Mubarak.”
LIBERAL of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement:
“As Muslims in Canada and around the world gather with family, friends, and community to mark the end of Ramadan, I would like to extend my warm wishes for a joyful holiday.
“Eid al-Fitr recognizes the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting, spiritual reflection, and recommitment to the principles of charity and compassion. Muslims will come together at the end of this month to take part in the Feast of the Breaking of the Fast.
“Over the past month, I have had the great pleasure of joining members of the Muslim community in observing Ramadan, including at an Iftar dinner in Toronto. After witnessing this community coming together and the shared values that unite us, it is clear that Canada is made strong not in spite of our differences, but because of them.
“We must also take this opportunity to consider those Muslims around the world who are unable to enjoy a safe and peaceful Eid with loved ones. To those families and communities, I wish them the comfort and blessings that people of all faiths are able to share in Canada.
“To all those observing the end of this holy month of spiritual renewal, allow me to wish you Eid Mubarak.”