Bidens, Blinken Congratulate Muslims On Eid al-Adha

Washington D.C./27.06.23/Turan:   U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on Tuesday congratulated Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, the 'great holiday' of Islam, as they put it, TURAN's Washington correspondent reports.

"As we gather with loved ones and engage in acts of worship, charity, and community service during this holy occasion, let us renew our commitment to the values that bind us together: compassion, empathy, and mutual respect. These principles are at the core of both Islam and the American spirit" Bidens said in a statement.

This year—for the first time—the White House is celebrating Eid al-Adha with a gathering of Muslim community leaders, hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff.

"In the United States, we are proud to be home to millions of Muslims who enrich our nation's cultural fabric and contribute to our shared prosperity. We value the countless contributions American Muslims make to our society, from education and healthcare to business and public service. Their presence strengthens our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and religious freedom," reads the White House statement.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a separate statement, also praised Islam’s diversity and its call for equality and compassion for all.

"During this time of celebration, community, and service, Muslims of all walks of life put aside personal priorities to assist those in need," he noted.  "We recognize that around the world, many Muslims this year are celebrating under grave humanitarian crises and political unrest. Tragically, some must celebrate alone, in hiding, or under repression."

The United States "is committed to stand up for the human rights of all people everywhere, including the right to freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression," Blinken noted.

Blinken concluded: "We wish a Hajj Mabroor to Muslims making their sacred pilgrimage to Mecca. May this special holiday be a celebration of togetherness and a devotion to service. Eid Mubarak"

Alex Raufoglu