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Indian American leaders mark Eid with messages of inclusion

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.

Representative image / Pexels

Indian American leaders marked Eid al-Fitr on March 20 with public messages and community engagements, highlighting themes of inclusion and public service as Ramadan came to a close.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) extended greetings to Muslims in her constituency and beyond. “Wishing a joyous Eid al-Fitr to Muslims in Washington, the US, and across the world! I hope the holy month of Ramadan brought peace, clarity, and joy to all who celebrate,” she said.

Also Read: Full circle moment as Mamdani celebrates iftar at Vikas Khanna's 'Bungalow'



New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani shared multiple reflections on Ramadan and Eid, linking the observance to broader questions of community and visibility.

In a video statement, Mamdani described Ramadan as “a lesson in the shallowness of instant gratification,” adding that “Muslims and New York City, they are intertwined.”

He also referred to the presence of Islam in the city across generations. “Many ask me what it means to be the first Muslim mayor of our city… when in reality our faith has been a part of this city for generations,” Mamdani said.



In a separate post, Mamdani described breaking his fast at Rikers Island alongside incarcerated individuals and staff. “It was a night that will stay with me for quite some time… In a system too often defined by what it takes, I was reminded of what it means to give—mercy, dignity, and humanity,” he said.

New York State Assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar joined congregants at Al-Furqan Jame Masjid, where she addressed community members and outlined policy efforts linked to Muslim communities in the state.

“Assalamu alaikum, Eid Mubarak to all. I am your state assemblywoman Jennifer Rajkumar. The whole state of New York commends you for your discipline, for your compassion, for your devotion this month of Ramadan,” she said.



Rajkumar said her office is working to expand halal food options in public schools and to support Bangladeshi youth. She also referred to legislation she has sponsored to recognize Eid as a statewide holiday.

“Keys to my office are your keys. You are family to me. I work to expand halal food options in our public schools for all of our children,” she said, adding, “I have recently sponsored the bill to make Eid a statewide holiday here in the state of New York.”

In a post on social media, Rajkumar said she was “proud to speak” at the mosque and reiterated her commitment to “open the doors of opportunity for all and uplift every community across our state.”

Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Ghazala Hashmi noted that Eid marks the conclusion of a month “rooted in faith, compassion, and service to others,” adding, “May this Eid bring peace, joy, and togetherness to all who are celebrating.”



State Senator Kannan Srinivasan also extended greetings to residents in Virginia. “As Ramadan concludes, warmest wishes to everyone across Loudoun County and Virginia celebrating Eid al-Fitr. May this day be filled with peace, reflection, and community. Eid Mubarak!” he said.

 



Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The festival is observed with communal prayers, charitable giving, and gatherings with family and community, and is widely seen as a time to emphasize compassion, gratitude, and social solidarity.

Discover more at New India Abroad.

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