Statement by Liberal Party of Canada Leader Justin Trudeau on Eid al-Fitr

July 17, 2015

OTTAWA – The Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Eid al-Fitr:

“On Eid al-Fitr, we join with Muslims in Canada and around the world to celebrate the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan.

“During the long days of summer, many have fasted from sunrise to sundown, and have taken the opportunity to engage in deep spiritual reflection. Now, they will gather with friends and family to share in the Feast of Fast-Breaking.

“Every year, I have the pleasure of marking Ramadan with Muslim communities across our country. It is always an honour to partake in this sacred tradition, which rests upon our shared values of empathy, generosity and discipline.

“This year, I had the opportunity to join families at gatherings in Mississauga at the Sayeda Khadija Centre, and in Calgary at the Akram Jomaa Islamic Centre. Sitting together with members of the Muslim community to break the fast was an enriching experience. At one of the gatherings, a group of interfaith leaders joined us to share in the spirit of the community. For me, there could not be a more Canadian way to mark the holy month. These occasions serve as an important reminder that our nation is stronger not in spite of our differences, but precisely because of them.

“On behalf of the Liberal Party of Canada and our Parliamentary Caucus, Sophie and I extend our best wishes to all those celebrating Eid al-Fitr. Eid Mubarak!”