Trudeau, Horgan and Wilkinson on Eid al-Adha

PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday issued the following statement on Eid al-Adha:

“Today, Muslims in Canada and around the world will mark the end of the Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, and celebrate Eid al‑Adha.

“Eid al-Adha is one of the most important Muslim holidays and a time to reflect on the lessons of sacrifice and the values of service, compassion, and charity.

“On this important occasion, Muslims usually gather with families and loved ones to pray, share festive meals, provide food to those in need, and give thanks for the blessings in life. This year, as we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and follow health guidelines to keep each other and our communities safe, celebrations will look different – especially for those who were unable to participate in the pilgrimage.

“However, the values at the heart of Eid al-Adha have never been more important. Whether it is supporting a local charity, being there for neighbours, or helping those who are more vulnerable, Muslim Canadians continue to show us what it means to serve our community.

“Today, we recognize that service and the many contributions that Muslim Canadians have made, and continue to make, to our communities and to our country.

“On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a happy Eid al-Adha.

“Eid Mubarak!”

Premier John Horgan

PREMIER John Horgan issued the following statement in honour of Eid al-Adha:

“Today, Muslims in British Columbia and around the world begin to celebrate Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice. This is a special time when families and friends come together to share a meal, give to those in need and reflect on the lessons of sacrifice – as demonstrated by Abraham’s commitment to God.

“Never have those reflections been more important than they are now. While our collective efforts have made B.C. a world leader in handling the COVID-19 pandemic, they have come with significant sacrifice. This Eid al-Adha, many are facing the stress of financial hardship or being separated from loved ones. Millions of Muslims who would have been making their pilgrimage to Mecca for the Hajj have had to stay closer to home. This year, local celebrations and prayer services will have fewer faces than before.

“Muslim communities throughout B.C. have had to find new ways to worship, as they did their part to help fight the spread of the virus. In Vancouver, the city’s oldest mosque, Al Masjid Al Jamia, broadcast the call to prayer during Ramadan over loudspeakers for first time in its history. Victoria’s Masjid Al-Iman hosted lectures online for the community. Others offered virtual prayers and online services to connect people to their faith. These examples of sacrifice and resilience have inspired us all.

“As Muslims prepare for the Qurbani, and to share in its bounty with family and those less fortunate, I extend my warm wishes to everyone celebrating. May Eid al-Adha’s sprit of togetherness, generosity and compassion bring good health and happiness – today, and as we move forward. Eid Mubarak.”

Andrew Wilkinson

B.C. Liberal Leader Andrew Wilkinson released the following statement for Eid al-Adha:

“Tonight we celebrate the start of the Islamic Feast of Sacrifice, or Eid al-Adha, one of the most important and holy holidays in the Muslim communities here in British Columbia and all around the globe.

“It is an occasion where family is celebrated, and good food is shared with loved ones as well as those in need.

“This year, COVID-19 public health restrictions will mean some people will be unable to mark this holy day in the company of family and friends. I hope everyone celebrating today is able to find a safe and meaningful way to mark this occasion with their loved ones.

“On behalf of the entire BC Liberal Caucus, I want to extend our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Eid al-Adha here in British Columbia and throughout the world,”

“Eid Mubarak!”

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