HOUSE MEMBERS HOST RAMADAN IFTAR ON CAPITOL
HILL
2nd annual Islamic fast-breaking dinner sponsored by 10 representatives
(WASHINGTON, D.C., 11/10/04) - More than 150 congressional staffers, American Muslim leaders, diplomats from Islamic-majority nations, and
elected officials from both major political parties turned out tonight for the second annual Ramadan iftar, or fast-breaking meal, on Capitol Hill.
The iftar, held in the foyer of the Rayburn House Office Building, was co-sponsored by 10 House members. It featured the breaking of the fast, the
Islamic sunset prayer (maghrib) and an ecumenical prayer by congressional staffer Tannaz Haddadi.
In her prayer, Haddadi said: "Oh Lord, help us remember those actions that are most loved by You: making others happy, feeding the hungry, helping the
afflicted, lightening the sorrow of those who are suffering, and assisting the injured."
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX) offered a welcome on behalf of the sponsoring House members and wished everyone "Ramadan mubarak," or blessed
Ramadan.
"We thank all those representatives who made this event possible and whose respect for religious diversity reflects the values of tolerance and mutual
understanding that we all hold dear," said Omar Ahmad, board chairman of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).
CAIR, America's largest Muslim civil liberties group, helped facilitate the event and provided the iftar meal. The Washington-based group's mission is
to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote
justice and mutual understanding.