(OKLAHOMA CITY, OK, 6/24/2015) — On June 25, the Oklahoma chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-OK) will host an Iftar (Ramadan fast-breaking) dinner at the State Capitol to commemorate the holy month of Ramadan and to promote engagement between Oklahoma Muslims and their elected officials. Featured speakers at the dinner will be Rep. Emily Virgin and Rep. Jason Dunnington, with a special keynote address by Rep. George E. Young Sr. on the relationship between faith and government.
Some 150 people are expected to attend the Thursday dinner.
SEE: 2015 CAIR-OK Ramadan Iftar at the State Capitol
http://www.cairoklahoma.com/event/2015_cair_oklahoma_iftar_at_the_state_capitol.html
While private individuals have hosted Iftar dinners at the Capitol before, this is the first year that CAIR-OK has headed the event. This month, CAIR-OK will also host a Day of Service in which more than 200 Muslims will volunteer at the Regional Food Bank as part of the holy month’s encouragement to serve the community.
“The Ramadan Iftar at the Capitol is a great opportunity for Oklahoma Muslims to come together to showcase their diverse backgrounds in a display of unity during this holy month,” said CAIR-OK Executive Director Adam Soltani. “The iftar is also a continuation of CAIR-OK’s efforts to bring our state’s Muslim community together with those elected to represent them to build bridges of understanding and cooperation.”
This year, Ramadan takes place from June 18 to July 17, and during this time, Muslims refrain from eating or drinking anything from sunup to sundown and focus more of their time on worshiping God. The month is marked by spiritual reflection and increased charity, as well as nightly opportunities to connect with family and community, and is obligatory for all Muslims who are not ill, traveling, pregnant, or breastfeeding.
SEE: Introduction to Ramadan the Month of Fasting
http://www.whyislam.org/brochures-online/877-why-islam-brochure-on-fasting/
CAIR-OK is a chapter of America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Our mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.
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CONTACT: CAIR-OK Executive Director Adam Soltani, 405-248-5853, asoltani@cair.com; CAIR-OK Civil Rights Director Veronica Laizure, 405-430-9877, vlaizure@cair.com; CAIR-OK Operations Coordinator Anna Facci, 405-286-6009 x3, afacci@cair.com