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CAPAC Members Commemorate the Start of Ramadan

May 16, 2018

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements to commemorate the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began yesterday at sundown:

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:

“As Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, I want to wish the Muslim community a joyous and blessed Ramadan. The holy month of Ramadan marks a time of reflection, spirituality, and rejuvenation for millions of Muslims in the United States and around the world. 

“But as we commemorate Ramadan and reflect on the indelible contributions that American Muslims have made to our great nation, we are also reminded of the challenges that still lie ahead.  At a time when a President can get elected by proclaiming a desire to ‘ban all Muslims from entering our country,’ I feel it is incumbent to remind ourselves of the important role Muslims have always played here in the United States. That is why, earlier this month, I introduced a resolution to officially recognize the rich history and contributions of the American Muslim community.

“Our nation has always been strengthened by its diversity, and CAPAC will continue to stand with the American Muslim community to safeguard the religious freedoms and civil rights of all Americans. Ramadan Mubarak.”

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02):

“As Muslims around the world begin their observance of Ramadan with fasting, reflection and prayer, I wish our Muslim communities in Hawai’i and across the country a blessed Ramadan. In Hawai’i, our Muslim community is part of the unique fabric that makes up our Aloha state, where the diversity of religions, ideas, backgrounds, and traditions are celebrated. Ramadan Kareem.”

Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17):

“I’d like to wish a blessed Ramadan to the Muslims in our district, our country, and across the world. Tonight’s crescent moon ushers in a month dedicated to self-reflection, compassion, and generosity. May the long days ahead bring spiritual cleansing and renewal for all. Ramadan Kareem.”

Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06):

“With the holy month of Ramadan beginning, I send my warmest wishes to the Muslim community for a peaceful, joyous and blessed holiday. Ramadan is the most sacred time of the year for Muslims. It is a time for fasting, self-reflection, prayer, sacrifice, and generosity. To all who celebrate, Ramadan Mubarak!”

Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34):

“Ramadan Mubarak to the Muslim-American families of Los Angeles and Muslims across the globe. The holy month of Ramadan is a time for charity, reflection, and renewal. As millions begin their days of fasting and nights of prayer, I wish them peace in their homes, mosques, and the company of their families. Ramadan Kareem!”

Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52):

“As communities in San Diego and across the country begin repenting and rejuvenation for the holy month of Ramadan, we are reminded of the importance of our diverse religious communities and our commitment to equality and peace. I want to wish our Muslim community a blessed and peaceful time of self-reflection and renewal.”

Congresswoman Roybal-Allard (CA-40):

"I wish my Muslim constituents a peaceful, reflective, and blessed Ramadan. As this holy month begins, let us remember that religious freedom is fundamental to our nation's identity. No matter what your religious background may be, we can all stand united in affirming that all Americans should be able to worship as they choose, free from the forces of intolerance, fear, and ignorance. Ramadan Mubarak!"

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09):

“I join in wishing Muslims around the world and in the Ninth Congressional District a Ramadan filled with peace, reflection and spiritual rejuvenation. As the holiest time of the year for Muslims, Ramadan entails disciplined fasting to cleanse the spirit and mind. Muslim Americans contribute greatly to our nation, and it is important that all communities remain a safe and welcoming space for diverse religious expression. Ramadan Mubarak!”

Congresswoman Watson Coleman (NJ-12):

“During the holy month of Ramadan, members of the Muslim community center themselves on traits like patience, generosity, and spirituality­­—traits that are shared across many other faiths. The lessons it teaches would be familiar in Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, and serve as reminders that we often have more in common than we realize. I extend my warmest wishes to those observing Ramadan, and my deepest gratitude to a community that endlessly demonstrates the vibrancy and strength that comes from diversity. Ramadan Mubarak.”

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994