More than 400 people broke bread together in celebration of the Islamic month of Ramadan at the annual Interfaith Iftar (breaking of fast) on May 15.
The event was hosted by the Muslim Association of Puget Sound (MAPS) in Redmond and the theme of the program was, Hope Against Hate and Hurt.
The program included a panel discussion by speakers Theresa Crecelius, Imam Abdirahman Kariye, Fauzia Lala, most who have directly been hurt by anti-Muslim hate incidents but who still find hope and resilience in their faith.
In a release, panel speaker Crecelius said the annual interfaith iftar is a wonderful time to bring the community together, break bread together, and commemorate a month that is holy and special to Muslims.
“At a time when there is so much hate and hurt, we strive to focus on the hope, optimism, resilience that our faith teacher, and help share the spirit of Ramadan with the entire community,” Crecelius said in a press release.
During the panel, MAPS American Muslim Empowerment Network’s executive director Aneelah Afzali said it’s all about taking action against hate.
“Taking action absolutely transcends any faith tradition,” she said. “You could be an atheist but we need you here. We need all of us to stand together to stand united and take action.”
From left: Panelists Aneelah Afzali, Theresa Crecelius, Imam Abdirahman Kariye, and Fauzia Lala speak on personal stories of how they have directly been hurt by anti-Muslim hate incidents at MAPS on May 15.
Attendees listened to a panel of speakers, engaged in table conversations, and broke bread together during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan on May 17. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo
The program included table conversations around the theme, hope Against Hate Hurt. Stephanie Quiroz/staff photo
Stephanie Quiroz/staff photos Over 400 multi-faith attendees, public safety representatives, state represtentatives, pastors, rabbis, community organizations, and civic leaders were seen at the iftar on May 15.
Stephanie Quiroz/staff photos Over 400 multi-faith attendees, public safety representatives, state represtentatives, pastors, rabbis, community organizations, and civic leaders were seen at the iftar on May 15.
