Another Successful Taste of Ramadan!
Close to 300 people shared an iftar at CAIR-Chicago's office, continuing the tradition of an event that has become a hub of youth activism in Chicago. The night included an international menu that was seemingly endless. Biryani, fried rice, dolma, hummus, samosas, tostadas, pastas, and a wide array of delectable desserts were all served. It was all delicious, and it all went fast.
Thursday night illustrated not only diversity in the dishes that were served but in the guests that attended the event. Attendees represented individuals from various backgrounds and walks of life; many originating from the Middle East, East and South Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and South America. Individuals from many faiths were represented including Catholics, Lutherans, Jews, Buddhists, Methodists, among others. There were also community leaders and many young people who attended.
Seeing such a diverse group of people meeting, conversing, and sharing food together highlights the flourishing Muslim community in Chicagoland, but also the growing number of community members who have become part of a greater network - a family that is diverse in its backgrounds, but held together by the common thread as being ambassadors for achieving social justice.
The "Taste of Ramadan" is an event that essentially speaks to the work that CAIR-Chicago does as an organization. Yes, we defend the constitutional rights of American Muslims, but we understand that we need events like these that unify broader communities in order to successfully challenge and ultimately overcome the injustices in our world that affect all of us.
There will always be more similarities in our struggles than differences. When we think about the significance of Ramadan, many Muslims believe it is a time for reflection, humility, appreciation, sharing, giving, and growth as individuals, families, and communities. It is a time we can all look introspectively to think about - and act on - how we can become better people - as individuals and as a community.
Without you, our event wouldn't have been such a tremendous success. Thank you sharing such a special night with us, and we look forward to bringing the "Taste of Ramadan" to you again next year. We would like to extend tremendous gratitude and appreciation to our sponsors for their kindness and generosity in providing meals to the staff, interns and attendees of the event. Please give back to these businesses for their gracious offerings to all the guests at the "Taste of Ramadan."
See Pictures from the 2015 "Taste of Ramadan" on Flickr!
