President Obama issues Ramadan statement
July 10, 2013
President Barack Obama has issued a statement marking the beginning of the month of Ramadan.
“With the start of the sacred month of Ramadan, Michelle and I extend our best wishes to Muslim communities here in the United States and around the world,” he began.
“For the world’s 1.5 billion Muslims, Ramadan is a time for thoughtful reflection, fasting and devotion,” he continued. “It is also an opportunity for family and friends to come together and celebrate the principles that bind people of different faiths – a commitment to peace, justice, equality and compassion towards our fellow human beings.”
“This month also reminds us that freedom, dignity and opportunity are the undeniable rights of all mankind,” he added. “We reflect on these universal values at a time when many citizens across the Middle East and North Africa continue to strive for these basic rights and as millions of refugees mark Ramadan far from their homes … In the United States, Ramadan is a reminder that millions of Muslim Americans enrich our nation each day—serving in our government, leading scientific breakthroughs, generating jobs and caring for our neighbors in need.”
“I wish Muslims across America and around the world a month blessed with the joys of family, peace and understanding,” President Obama concluded. “Ramadan Kareem [a generous Ramadan].”
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Posted by: jg23753479 -
Jul. 11, 2013 10:01 AM ET USA
Would that Obama were more solicitous of the teachings of Islam concerning homosexuality, abortion, etc. At least there is some comfort in knowing he is hypocritical toward all religions, not just Christianity. He ignores the core truths of all of them and pretends ostentatiously to observe their externalities. Does anyone believe one word this man says anymoreÉ
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Posted by: jeremiahjj -
Jul. 11, 2013 9:22 AM ET USA
In view of the president's position regarding the Catholic Church and the right of Catholic and other Christians to practice their faith free from government intrusion, the statement in support of Ramadan speaks for itself.
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Posted by: hartwood01 -
Jul. 10, 2013 9:32 PM ET USA
I wonder how many Muslims are thinking "Does that mean you will be sending more drones to target our countries?"
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Posted by: Gil125 -
Jul. 10, 2013 2:39 PM ET USA
So... I guess this means don't invite the Obamas to lunch this month.
