Press Releases 2007
OFFICIAL TEXT: U.S. Congress Passes Ramadan Bill
October 04, 2007
This is HISTORIC for American- Muslims and Muslims around the world.
This is the first time in history that the United States Congress will
commemorate and recognize the month of Ramadan as the Islamic holy
month. The language from the bill text is below for your viewing.
110th CONGRESS
1st Session - H. RES. 635
Recognizing
the commencement of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting and
spiritual renewal, and commending Muslims in the United States and
throughout the world for their faith.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
September 5, 2007
Ms.
EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas (for herself, Mr. MEEKS of New York, and
Mr. KEITH ELLISON) submitted the following resolution; which was
referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs
RESOLUTION
Recognizing
the commencement of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting and
spiritual renewal, and commending Muslims in the United States and
throughout the world for their faith.
Whereas since the
terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, threats
and incidents of violence have been directed at law-abiding, patriotic
Americans of African, Arab, and South Asian descent, particularly
members of the Islamic faith;
Whereas, on September 14, 2001,
the House of Representatives passed a concurrent resolution condemning
bigotry and violence against Arab-Americans, American Muslims, and
Americans from South Asia in the wake of the terrorist attacks;
Whereas it is estimated that there are approximately 1,500,000,000 Muslims worldwide;
Whereas
Ramadan is the holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal for Muslims
worldwide, and is the 9th month of the Muslim calendar year; and
Whereas
the observance of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan commences at dusk
on September 13, 2007, and continues for one lunar month: Now,
therefore, be it
Resolved, That--
(1) during this time
of conflict, in order to demonstrate solidarity with and support for
members of the community of Islam in the United States and throughout
the world, the House of Representatives recognizes the Islamic faith as
one of the great religions of the world; and
(2) in observance
of and out of respect for the commencement of Ramadan, the Islamic holy
month of fasting and spiritual renewal, the House of Representatives
acknowledges the onset of Ramadan and expresses its deepest respect to
Muslims in the United States and throughout the world on this
significant occasion.
The Congress passed the resolution unanimously 376-0 on October 2, 2007.