Asalamu Alaikum, Greetings of Peace,
CIOGC joined the Archdiocese of Chicago to mark the breaking of the Ramadan fast at the 22nd Annual Muslim-Catholic Iftar on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at the Islamic Foundation in Villa Park. The longstanding Muslim-Catholic Iftar allowed for the groups to join in friendship and solidarity during the Islamic holy month.
Reviewing their respective religions values, the speakers weaved common values with a call to act. We were urged to begin working together to address the needs of the hungry, to assist separated families, and to advance the safety interests of all who reside in this great country, whether from gun violence in the streets or vandalism of houses of worship.
Commenting on recent attacks on people of faith and houses of worship, CIOGC Chairman Irshad Khan said:
“These attacks are a chilling reminder that intolerance continues to spread in the United States and around world. We should reflect on how to address our collective vulnerability to hate-inspired violence. We must not, I repeat must not, permit such acts to immobilize us. In fact, we should use these healing opportunities to stand shoulder to shoulder in combating all forms of hate.
Intolerance to those different from us must be rejected and our will to fight against such intolerance must remain steadfast. In today’s divisive times, we must have more concrete programs where Muslim and Christian and faith based communities engage in practical programs on a common platform to counter hate. I look forward to continue our dialogues with the Archdiocese of Chicago.”
We extend special thanks to Aftab Khan, the President of Islamic Foundation, Azam Nizamuddin, Aliya Husain, Islamic Foundation’s Interfaith Committee, and their host of volunteers who enabled this Iftar Dinner to be such a success.
Our regular interfaith programming efforts are a vital part of our progress in working towards the common good. For this reason, we ask that you donate to CIOGC this Ramadan to help us continue offering programs that strengthen our important interfaith partnerships. We greatly appreciate your support!