Ramadan

Statement by the Honourable Jim Karygiannis,

Member of Parliament for Scarborough-Agincourt

As Ramadan begins, I would like to offer warm regards to all Canadians who are observing this holy month.

One of the most important rights protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms is the right to worship.  The observance of Ramadan, one of the holiest times in the Muslim religious calendar, offers a time to reflect on one's good fortune, the plight of those less fortunate and the importance of religion in one's life. 

A multi-cultural society offers the opportunity to share one's culture and faith.  Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for Muslim Canadians to share the tenets of their faith with their fellow Canadians.  This sharing helps to bring understanding and acceptance of what makes each of us unique.  It also helps to strengthen the ties which make us Canadian.

The self-reflection, prayer and charity exhibited during Ramadan serve to remind each of us of our individual spirituality and the need for individual and collective sacrifice.

Ramadan Mubarak.