​BRAMPTON, ON (April 12, 2021) – The City of Brampton celebrates its diversity virtually during Ramadan with a month of online activities from April 13 to May 12, with a special iftar celebration event Monday, April 19, from 7 to 8:30 pm.

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, introspection and prayer for the Muslim community, the followers of Islam. As Brampton remains under the Province’s Stay-at-Home order, the City asks residents to celebrate safely and take part in its online activities planned during Ramadan, including:

• Community giving by partnering with a Brampton foodbank to collect non-perishable food and toy donations during Ramadan to help people in need
• Highlighting the cultural aspects of Ramadan through community submissions
• Spotlight on local Brampton businesses and how to support them during Ramadan
• Virtual tour of a mosque in Brampton and a message from a local Imam
• Ramadan food recipes, health and fitness tips

During Ramadan, the Muslim community does not eat between dawn and sunset. The iftar dinner is a meal held at sunset, when Muslims break their daily fast.

This year’s Iftar includes a welcome message from Mayor Patrick Brown, Members of Council and messages from community leaders and local imams. The celebration features Quranic recitation, words of inspiration, nasheeds, a keynote message about the Spirit of Ramadan, dua, adhan (call to prayer) and iftar at 8 pm.

People can experience Ramadan online from April 13 to May 12. To participate visit: brampton.ca/experienceramadan.

In 2020, Council voted to waive the City of Brampton’s Noise By-law allowing places of worship to sound, or ring bells, and chimes. During Ramadan again this year, mosques will be able to amplify the 8 pm, or sunset call to prayer. Community groups or religious organizations requesting special accommodations may contact 311. Requests will be reviewed by City staff and Council for approval.

Quotes

‘We are so fortunate to have such a wonderfully diverse community here in Brampton, with the opportunity to recognize and celebrate our Mosaic of cultures through special events like the holy month of Ramadan. Islam is the world’s second largest religion and has more than 60,000 followers from diverse communities throughout our City.”

- Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“I would like to encourage residents to experience Ramadan virtually this year by taking part in some of the many activities planned online. During the Province’s Stay-at-Home order, people can celebrate Ramadan in the safety of their own home.”

- David Barrick, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton

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