WHEREAS, Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar, and marks the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad; and
WHEREAS, Ramadan lasts 29 to 30 days based on the timing of the astronomical new moon; and
WHEREAS, Muslims around the world observe the month by fasting each day from sunrise to sunset; and
WHEREAS, the daily breaking of fast, called Iftar, is often celebrated by family and community gatherings, and is followed by the Tarawih evening prayer; and
WHEREAS, Ramadan is regarded as a time for spiritual reflection; increased awareness and giving to the global poor, sick, and hungry; and a bridging of differences between people over a shared commitment to faith; and
WHEREAS, the end of Ramadan is commemorated by the Eid al-Fitr festival of breaking the fast, a joyous occasion marked by sharing sweets, gifts, and good tidings with family, friends, and neighbors; and
WHEREAS, Virginia joins with Muslims around the world celebrating Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr this year;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ralph S. Northam, do hereby recognize and June 15, 2018, as EID al -FITR in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.
