[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 17]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 23074]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




   IN HONOR OF THE 2ND ANNUAL RAMADAN IFTAR DINNER IN CLEVELAND, OHIO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 18, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
the 2nd Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner, hosted once again by the Cleveland 
Office of the Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations 
(CAIR). This joyous celebration reflects the significance of the Muslim 
holy month of Ramadan, a sacred event reflecting the core values of the 
Islamic religion: a steadfast devotion to faith, peace, family and 
heritage.
  Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of the religion of Islam and one 
of the central forms of Islamic worship. Throughout the entire ninth 
month of the Islamic Calendar year, Muslims show their devotion to God 
by fasting daily from daybreak until sundown. The sacred month of 
Ramadan is a time of giving, gratitude to God and sacrifice, which 
serves to unify Muslims around the world with a great sense of 
connection to all humanity.
  Muslim Americans comprise a significant number of citizens in Greater 
Cleveland and across America. Moreover, the Muslim community greatly 
enriches the diverse fabric of our culture. Muslim Americans contribute 
immensely within all aspects of society, including premier achievements 
in science, medicine, business, religion, government service, education 
and art. The leaders and members of the Cleveland Office of the Ohio 
Chapter of CAIR remain focused on their vital mission: to enhance 
understanding of Islam, protect civil liberties and establish community 
coalitions to promote justice and mutual respect.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of American Muslims of Greater Cleveland and Muslims around the world. 
We also stand in tribute to the leaders and members of CAIR, for 
celebrating the sacred month of Ramadan with our community, at the 2nd 
Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner. This interfaith gathering is reflective of 
the freedoms of our democratic society and underscores a deep and 
abiding honor and respect for individuals of all cultures and faiths, 
thereby strengthening our entire Nation.

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