PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau, on Sunday said in a statement on Ramadan:

“Tonight, at sundown, Muslim communities in Canada and around the world will mark the beginning of Ramadan.

“Over the coming weeks, family and friends will come together to pray and give back to others through kindness and generosity. At sundown, they will gather for iftar – the traditional meal shared after a long day of fasting. No matter where it’s observed, Ramadan provides an opportunity to honour the values of compassion, gratitude, and family.

“For all of us, this is also an opportunity to recognize the invaluable contributions that Muslim Canadians have made – and continue to make – to our country. Nearly 1.8 million Muslims call Canada home, and our country is more prosperous because of them.

“This year, the sacred month comes at a particularly challenging time, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfold. Canada reaffirms our call for a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza and the safe, unimpeded access to humanitarian relief for civilians.

“As Muslim communities observe Ramadan with kindness and compassion, we are reminded of our collective duty to stand against Islamophobia, racism, and hate in all their forms, wherever and whenever they occur.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish Muslim communities across Canada a blessed and peaceful Ramadan.

“رمضان مبارك

“Ramadan Mubarak.”

PREMIER David Eby said:

“With the crescent moon in the sky, Muslims in B.C. and around the world will mark the beginning of Ramadan at sunset tonight.

“During this holy month, Muslims will dedicate themselves to their faith, fast from dawn to dusk and give back to their communities. Compassion, gratitude and generosity are foundational to Ramadan and to Islam.

“This year, Ramadan comes at a painful time for many Muslims as the war in the Middle East continues. Here in B.C., we have seen a disturbing rise in Islamophobia. Our government condemns this hate and is committed to rooting it out.

“We have been working directly with the Muslim community on ways to ensure that everyone feels safe and supported in our province. Last year, our government created the Anti-Hate Community Support Fund to help protect community organizations and places of worship from hate-motivated crimes. And this legislative session, we will build on our work to make B.C. a more welcoming and inclusive place by introducing new anti-racism legislation.

“For Muslims, Ramadan is a time of reflection. This month, I encourage everyone in B.C. to reflect on how they can build bridges with their neighbours of all faiths and backgrounds. Our government will continue to look for ways to bring people together and focus on what we have in common rather than what divides us.

“On behalf of the Government of British Columbia, I wish all those celebrating a peaceful Ramadan.

“Ramadan Mubarak!”

CONSERVATIVE Leader Pierre Poilievre said:

“Tonight, with the sighting of the crescent moon in the sky, Muslims worldwide will mark the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

“For the next 30 days, Muslims will anchor themselves to the spiritual practices of fasting, prayer and thoughtful reflection.  Through these acts of discipline and sacrifice, Muslims are reminded of God’s unending goodness and are inspired to extend a hand of compassion and charity to those in need.

“This global observance underscores our shared humanity and collective responsibility to uplift one another. Let’s celebrate this spirit of unity and compassion as we wish Muslims in Canada and beyond a blessed Ramadan.

“Here in Canada, countless communities in every corner of the country have been enriched by the goodwill of the Muslim community. From leading charity initiatives at neighbourhood mosques to opening their doors to their neighbours for Iftars, Muslim Canadians continue to use the gifts of their faith to better their communities and strengthen our common home.

“As Muslims give thanks for God’s gifts during Ramadan, let us all be reminded of how profoundly blessed we are to inhabit the greatest country in the world. We are blessed with the freedom to live and worship each in our own way. May we continue to work together to strengthen this legacy by making Canada the freest country on earth.

“To all Muslims celebrating here in Canada and around the world, Ramadan Mubarak!”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said:

“Today, Muslims in Canada and around the world are welcoming the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

This month of fasting from sunrise to sunset is a time for spiritual renewal, generosity, kindness and prayer. For Muslims, Ramadan is the month of conviviality and sharing.

It’s also a time for families, neighbours and communities across Canada to come together. The month brings a period of self-reflection that you share with loved ones at iftar, the breaking of the fast, while reconnecting with one another.

On behalf of all New Democrats, I wish all Muslim Canadians a peaceful month with family, friends and loved ones. I hope this Ramadan inspires us all to build a better country and world that is more just and compassionate for everyone.

Ramadan Kareem!”