The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) extends its congratulations to the Muslim community on Governor Wes Moore’s official proclamation commemorating Ramadan as a month of reflection, prayer, and community.
VIDEO: Ramadan Greetings from Maryland’s Governor
The Proclamation highlights the significance of this holy month, which is observed by approximately 2 billion Muslims worldwide and 350,000 Muslims across the state. It is a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and charitable giving, fostering a deeper sense of community and connection.
“We commend Governor Moore’s acknowledgement of the rich tapestry of our state’s diverse Muslim community,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “This recognition honors the values Ramadan embodies, strengthens bonds between different groups, and serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and respect for all cultures and religions.”
As Muslims around the state observe this sacred month, they are engaging in fasting from dawn until sunset, increased prayer, and acts of charity, aimed at increasing God-consciousness and fostering a spirit of unity and compassion.
The Proclamation reads:
“From the Governor of the State of Maryland
THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN 2025
FEBRUARY 28th,2025 – MARCH 30th,2025
WHEREAS,
The holy month of Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world as a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, marking a sacred period ofsiritual growth and devotion; and
WHEREAS,
Islam is a faith practiced by over 1.9 billion people globally and by a vibrant and diverse Muslim community here in Maryland, which is home to approximately 350,000 Muslim residents, who contribute significantly to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our state; and
WHEREAS,
During Ramadan,Muslims abstain from food, drink, and intimate relations from dawn until sunset, demonstrating self-discipline, gratitude, and compassion and encourage acts of kindness, charity, and service, exemplifying these values through outreach, interfaith dialogue, and initiatives to assist those who are less fortunate; and
WHEREAS,
The principles of Ramadan reflect the shared values of unity, compassion, and mutual understanding, which strengthen the bonds of our diverse communities across Maryland and foster values of peace, unity, and empathy, encouraging individuals of all backgrounds to embrace mutual understanding and work toward a more just and equitable society; and
WHEREAS,
The State of Maryland is committed to combating Islamophobia, prejudice, and discrimination, ensuring that all residents, including our Muslim neighbors, can live and worship freely in peace and security; and
WHEREAS,
The State of Maryland joins its Muslim residents in welcoming the month of Ramadan and recognizes their valuable contributions to building a more inclusive and harmonious society; and
WHEREAS,
All Marylanders are encouraged to recognize and honor the significance of this sacred time, promoting interfaith understanding, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of our Muslim neighbors.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, WES MOORE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MARYLAND, do hereby proclaim FEBRUARY 28h,2025-MARCH 30″, 2025 as THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN in Maryland, and do commend this observance to all of our citizens.
Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Maryland on this 28th day of February Two Thousand and Twenty-Five.”
CAIR Maryland encourages all Marylanders to join in the spirit of Ramadan by practicing compassion, empathy and understanding.
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry, zchaudry@cair.com, 410-971-6062; CAIR Maryland Outreach Coordinator Kimberly Syuardi, ksyuardi@cair.com, 202-850-9293