A crowd of thousands gathered at Dentonia Park in East Toronto on the morning of Friday, April 21, to celebrate Eid-al-Fitr.
The celebration featured speeches followed prayers to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan which is observed by Muslims around the world.
Eid-al-Fitr signifies the end of the month of fasting, reflection and helping others.
The Dentonia Park event was organized by the Danforth Islamic Centre.
A number of dignitaries attended and spoke including Ontario NDP leader Marit Stiles, Scarborugh Soutwest MPP Doly Begum, Beaches-East York MPP Mary-Margaret McMahon, Beaches-East York MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Beaches-East York Councillor Brad Bradford, and Scarborough Southwest Councillor Gary Crawford.
In a statement released on the evening of Thursday, April 20, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wished everyone observing Eid-al-Fitr a “happy and blessed” celebration.
“On the first sighting of the new crescent moon, Muslims in Canada and around the world will celebrate Eid al-Fitr to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan,” said Trudeau in his statement.
“Eid al-Fitr, also known as the festival of breaking the fast, is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic faith. It is an opportunity for families and friends to spend quality time together, worship as a community, and give to charity. It is also a time to show generosity, gratitude, and compassion – core values that are at the heart of Islam. On this day, we recognize the invaluable contributions Muslim communities in Canada have made, and continue to make, to this country. Canada’s cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and sources of pride.”
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