October to Be Declared
Month of Ramadan in Illinois
Springfield, IL: In deference
to the many adherents to the Muslim faith in Illinois, Senator
Peter Roskam (R-Wheaton) has introduced a measure to recognize
October as the holy month of Ramadan.
“America is a diverse country with many different people
from many different cultures and backgrounds,” Roskam
said. “We have, as a country, made it a point to set
aside various months and weeks throughout the course of the
year to celebrate our nation’s diverse heritage. I see
no reason why we cannot focus a little attention on Muslims
and their culture. After all, this country has and always
will be a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.”
Senate Resolution 493 states that “the citizens of Illinois
should respect and honor the faith and tradition of Muslims;
therefore by it resolved by the Senate of the Ninety-Fourth
General Assembly of the State of Illinois, that we recognize
October as the holy month of Ramadan.”
Roskam, a Republican candidate for Congressional 6th District,
which is currently represented by Congressman Henry Hyde,
said the impetus for the legislation came from a local community
activist and York Township Trustee, Moon Khan.
The Month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar
and Muslims are required to fast the entire month. The fast
of Ramadan has strict regiments that forbid eating or drinking
during the daylight hours. In addition smoking and sexual
activity are also not allowed. The fast is broken at the end
of each day with prayer and a meal called the Iftar. The end
of Ramadan is celebrated as Eidul Fitr, which was observed
on November 3rd.
The Illinois Senate session began in the final weeks of October,
and Roskam immediately introduced the resolution, which, however,
takes time to go through several procedures. Senate Resolution
493 has been filed and awaits assignment to a Senate committee.
“This is an historic moment for Muslims in Illinois
because for the first time the state legislature has undertaken
such a broad measure to recognize an important Islamic tradition,”
said Khan. “Working together is the key to understanding.”
For more information about the measure, please contact Ryan
McLau ghlin, Campaign Manager Peter Roskam for Congress (IL-6)
at 630- 221-0006 or Moon Khan at 630-889-0588.
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