Ottawa, July 20, 2012 — The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement recognizing the start of the month of Ramadan:
Today marks the start of the holy month of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the period during which the Qur’an is believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Mohammed.
For Muslims in Canada and around the world, Ramadan is considered to be the holiest and most solemn month of the year, a time of profound worship and deep spirituality. Ramadan is a time to practice self-discipline and contemplation through fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam. Such observance is intended to foster a higher sense of spirituality, humility and a sense of community among the Muslim faithful.
For all Canadians, this month provides an excellent opportunity to engage with Muslim friends, neighbours and colleagues to learn more about the Islamic faith and the importance of Ramadan in Islam.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, I extend my best wishes to Muslims everywhere as they observe the month of Ramadan.
Ramadan Kareem.
For further information (media only), please contact:
Alexis Pavlich
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
