Bilal Cheema and Islamic Relief Canada hosted a Community Iftar in the heart of Surrey, at the Surrey Arts Center that reflected the diversity of the beautiful city. The Community Iftar was an opportunity to bring together community representation from all faiths and community groups to mark the beginning of the blessed Islamic month of Ramadan.
Leadership and community representation from Indigenous, Sikh, Hindu, and Christian groups joined members of the Muslim community to learn about the significance of this month and the teachings and values that guide Muslims during the holy month. Imam Sadique Pathan and Shaykh Sheryar Bashir shared the fundamental principles, teachings, and customs of the month.
Participants at the event walked away with a better understanding and appreciation of Ramadan. Participants were welcomed by a young Sister Fatima Qureshi, a volunteer with Islamic Relief Canada.
The event also featured a welcome by Indigenous Councillor David Kenworthy from Katzie First Nation. Bilal invited Indigenous participation to ensure we are reminded of whose ancestral lands the gathering took place. Councillor Kenworthy stayed for the evening and thanked the organizers for the inclusive nature of the event.
Members of Surrey City Council, Members of the Provincial Legislature, and Members of Parliament also graced the event and had an opportunity to meet and engage with participants. Madame Mayor Brenda Locke reiterated the Islamic greeting she heard earlier that evening with “Peace Be Upon You” and thanked the organizers for welcoming community participation as we build our growing city.
Host Bilal Cheema spoke about community, suggesting the month of Ramadan is an
exercise of community building through the pursuit of purposeful and meaningful community engagement. He elaborated on the sacrifice from worldly affairs and the pursuit of familial, community, and spiritual connection made by Muslims during the month of Ramadan. He highlighted the generosity and kindness that propel Muslims to help and support one another during the month and the focus on sharing and charity that is displayed from mosque to mosque; home to home.
The evening was concluded with a delicious dinner that was enjoyed by all.
