U.S. Reps. André Carson, Ilhan Omar, Rashid Tlaib & MN Attorney General Keith Ellison Join Muslim Advocates for Virtual Ramadan Celebration

WASHINGTON, DC — As a way to ensure that American Muslims stay connected yet home during Ramadan, on May 12, 2020, leading American Muslims will join Muslim Advocates at the The National Iftar, a virtual evening of courage, inspiration and community for all American Muslims and their allies. The Iftar will be co-chaired by Reps. André Carson, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. The event will also feature remarks from: Imam Khalid Latif, Imam W. Deen Shareef, artist Aisha Fukushima and more.

Register here to experience:

• Stories of American Muslims who are working to help their communities during the pandemic
• A panel discussion on how the government is supporting our communities featuring Muslim public officials
• Reflections on Ramadan from leading American Muslim scholars and religious leaders

“The unprecedented convergence of a global pandemic and Ramadan highlights all the ways American Muslims are overcoming hardship to honor their faith and their communities,” said Muslim Advocates Executive Director Farhana Khera. “I hope that The National Iftar can provide a valuable public service to help keep us all connected and inspired during Ramadan while also staying home.”

“Though the pandemic has forced us to rethink how we celebrate Ramadan, I hope we can start a new tradition with this virtual National Iftar,” said Honorary Co-Chair Rep. Rashida Tlaib. “This event is an opportunity for all Americans to join us as my fellow Muslim colleagues in Congress and I observe Ramadan. We will uplift the stories of American Muslims who are working to help their communities during this pandemic and share why it is important to continue to show up for others.”

“I’m honored to join Muslim Advocates and fellow Muslim leaders for this wonderful event,” stated Honorary Co-Chair Rep. André Carson. “Though many of us remain apart due to COVID-19, the season of Ramadan will continue to bring us together in spirit at a time when it’s more important than ever for us to remain united. I look forward to strengthening these bonds, celebrating our shared faith and charting a course for recovery at The National Iftar.” 

“The holy month of Ramadan will be a little different this year. But, that does not mean we cannot find creative ways to spend time with our friends, family and neighbors,” said Honorary Co-Chair and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. “That’s why I’m excited to take part in The National Iftar, which is bringing together people from across the nation. Now, more than ever, it is important we practice that no one is outside our circle of compassion. By coming together for The National Iftar, we are creating friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. I applaud the Muslim Advocates for hosting this event and look forward to seeing you there.”

Additional Resources:

• Register now for The National Iftar
• (2019) Muslim Members of Congress Host Historic Congressional Iftar

Muslim Advocates is a national civil rights organization working in the courts, in the halls of power and in communities to halt bigotry in its tracks. We ensure that American Muslims have a seat at the table with expert representation so that all Americans may live free from hate and discrimination. 

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