Maryland celebrates Ramadan with 'welcome' event
BALTIMORE -- This week marks the start of Ramadan.
In keeping with the holy month, the Maryland Office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is celebrating a month of reflection with a welcome event.
Ramadan marks the revelation of the Qur'an, Islam's religious text.
"During this month of reflection,... appreciation patience self-restraint to build a better country, a better city, a better world," CAIR Director Zainab Chaudry said.
The month is observed worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer reflection, and community.
"Ramadan is a time in which I'm able to reconnect with my faith…Also, it is a time for me to become closer to my family," CAIR Intern Flematu Fofana said.
Elected officials and community members gathered on Saturday in Baltimore County, pledging their commitment to further the rights and interests of Maryland's Muslim communities.
"Ultimately, what actions do you take . . . What matters most," Maryland Delegate Gabriel Acevero said.
There was a proclamation presented from the office of Gov. Wes Moore to mark the significance and beginning of Ramadan.
"It means a lot to the Muslim community that someone is able to recognize that for over 200,000 muslims in Maryland," Fofana said.