For Muslims in Canada and around the world, today is a significant day marking the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Known as the Festival of the Breaking of the Fast, Eid al-Fitr is a time marked by special congregational prayers, charity and gift-giving. It is also time of great joy and celebration during which Muslims visit family and friends and gather for festive meals.
For all Canadians, this important Islamic holiday provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on the tremendous contributions that the Muslim community has made to this country’s rich and diverse heritage.
As Eid al-Fitr is also a time of compassion, I would like to take a moment to remember the victims of the flood-affected populations in Pakistan. The Government of Canada has committed up to $33 million to help with priority needs such as food, water, sanitation, emergency medical care and shelter.
We have also announced the Pakistan Floods Relief Fund, whereby all eligible contributions will be matched, dollar for dollar, effectively doubling the power of donations to support humanitarian assistance, early recovery, and reconstruction in Pakistan. We encourage all Canadians to donate to this worthy cause.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes for a happy and healthy Eid al-Fitr to all Muslims.
Eid Mubarak.