No one should discriminate against or be oppressed, or be repressed, for their religious beliefs: President Biden

US President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden invited Muslim leaders, families and children for celebrations of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr at the White House on May 2. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims around the world fast from dawn to dusk and…

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US President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden invited Muslim leaders, families and children for celebrations of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr at the White House on May 2. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims around the world fast from dawn to dusk and focus on spirituality as well as charity.

A day before this joyous occasion, President Biden made a statement to greet the Muslims present there in the White House and to all Muslims in the world. The text of his statement is hereunder:

“As Muslims in the United States and around the world conclude the month of Ramadan and celebrate Eid al-Fitr, Jill and I extend our warmest wishes to all who are celebrating this joyous occasion.

“…. Eid is also an occasion for Muslims to remember all those who are struggling or impacted by poverty, hunger, conflict, and disease, and to recommit to building a better future for all.

“This year, as we mark Eid al-Fitr, we hold in our hearts the millions of displaced persons and refugees around the globe who are spending this sacred holiday separated from their families and unsure of their future, but still hoping for a brighter tomorrow. As a nation we must always keep faith with those seeking a better life, and uphold our commitment to serving as a beacon of hope for oppressed people around the world. And, Muslims across the United States celebrate Eid, let us renew our dedication to our foundational commitment to respecting all faiths and beliefs.

“The Holy Qur’ān urges people to stand firmly for justice and reminds us that we were created as nations and tribes so that we may get to know one another.  The tradition of religious freedom for all strengthens our country, and we will continue to work with Americans of all beliefs and backgrounds to safeguard and deepen our collective commitment to this fundamental principle. This year, we will resume the tradition of celebrating Eid at the White House, and of honouring the inspiring Muslim Americans who are leading efforts to build greater understanding and unity across our nation.

“To all those celebrating, Jill and I wish you and your loved ones a Happy Eid.  May the spirit of community, compassion, and service we have witnessed over the last month continue throughout the year. Eid Mubarak!” Speaking to American Muslims invited from across the country at the Eid celebration, President Biden said: “Today, around the world, we’ve seen so many Muslims that have been targeted by violence. No one, no one should discriminate against or be oppressed, or be repressed, for their religious beliefs. We have to acknowledge that an awful lot of work remains to be done, abroad and here at home. Muslims make our nation stronger every single day, even as they still face real challenges and threats in our society, including targeted violence and Islamophobia.”