A prominent United States Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization today urged Muslim communities nationwide to reach out to their neighbors of all beliefs by inviting them to take part in an interfaith “iftar,” or fast-breaking meal, during the upcoming month-long fast of Ramadan. Ramadan is the month on the Islamic lunar calendar during which Muslims abstain from food, drink and other sensual pleasures from break of dawn to sunset. It is estimated to begin July 20 this year. To assist local Muslim community leaders, the Washington-based Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has produced a “Sharing Ramadan Resource Guide 2012″ that offers step-by-step advice on hosting an interfaith iftar. A CAIR video promoting the campaign notes that the resource guide includes instructions on forming a “Sharing Ramadan” committee, a sample media advisory for an iftar, advice on reaching out to local media, an advertisement for the event, text for a “Welcome to Our Ramadan Fast-Breaking” brochure, frequently-asked questions about Ramadan, and a sample event program and newspaper advertisement. The video also notes that education and outreach help decrease anti-Muslim prejudice in American society. “In order to enhance interfaith relations, it is imperative that American Muslims reach out to their neighbors of all beliefs to offer balanced and accurate information about Islam and the Muslim community,” said CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad. He cited a 2009 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, which stated that those who know a Muslim or are familiar with Islam and Muslims are “most likely to express favorable views of Muslims and to see similarities between Islam and their own religion.” Awad also noted that Islam's Prophet Muhammad said Ramadan “is the month of sharing with others.” (Al-Tirmidhi) CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
