Ottawa, August 11, 2010 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing the start of the Holy month of Ramadan:
“For Muslims in Canada and around the world, the holy month of Ramadan, which begins today, is a time of profound worship, reflection and contemplation as Muslims are called upon to fast, pray, and read the Holy Qur’an. In addition to prayer, fasting during the month of Ramadan is, in fact, one of the five pillars of Islam.
“Such observance is intended to foster understanding and brotherhood, as Ramadan is also a month of deep spirituality and the practicing of self-discipline.
“Ramadan takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the month in which the Qur’an is believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Mohammed (SAW).
“For all Canadians, this month provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on the tremendous contributions that Muslims have made to this country’s rich and diverse heritage.
“As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes for a peaceful Ramadan to Muslims everywhere as they observe this most solemn month on their calendar.
“Ramadan Kareem.”
To download Minister Kenney’s video statement for Ramadan, please visit http://www.precisiontransfermedia.com/cic_ramadan/.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alykhan Velshi
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
