WASHINGTON – The American Secretary of State, John Kerry, has said he would host an Iftar celebration at the State Department to mark the holy season of Ramadan.
In a statement made available on the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria website, Kerry was quoted as saying “As the holy month of Ramadan begins, I wish the millions of Muslims here at home and so many more all around the world Ramadan Kareem.
“Ramadan is a time for peaceful reflection and prayer, a time for acts of compassion and charity — universal values and aspiration ingrained in every human heart.
“Across the globe, Muslims will assemble and celebrate a rich tradition with fasting and prayer, as generations have done every year since the time of the Prophet Muhammad. Here in America, Muslims will commemorate Ramadan in ways that reflect the great diversity of our country and the spirit of community that binds us together.
“The diversity and patriotism of America’s religious communities are sources of strength for all of us, and our freedom to worship is a powerful reminder of the traditions we share. E Pluribus Unum – From Many, One. And from many faiths, we stand together in one shared country.
“Along with many of our Ambassadors all over the world, I will host an Iftar celebration at the State Department in Washington, DC. This event will bring together leaders from across the Muslim community to join together and reflect on our shared values.
“On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, I wish all Muslims around the world a peaceful Ramadan and joyful month.”
