The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) today released a concise Ramadan and Eid guide to assist elected officials in better understanding and appropriately recognizing the significance of the holy month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr.
The one-page guide provides elected officials with key insights into the practices and spiritual significance of Ramadan, including:
- An overview of Ramadan and its importance in Islam
- Key practices observed by Muslims, such as fasting and prayer
- Information on Eid ul-Fitr and its cultural traditions
- Guidance on extending greetings like “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Eid Mubarak,” and how to show support for Muslim communities.
In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“Ramadan is one of the most sacred months on the Islamic calendar. It is marked by fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection — but it is also a deeply communal experience rooted in service, compassion, and renewed faith. For Muslim families across New Jersey, Ramadan is a time of spiritual growth and civic responsibility, where we recommit ourselves not only to God, but to our neighbors and our broader community.
We hope this guide serves as a practical and respectful resource for elected officials who want to acknowledge Ramadan and Eid in an informed and meaningful way. Recognition matters. When public leaders take the time to understand and honor the traditions of their Muslim constituents, it strengthens civic bonds and reinforces the principle that Muslim Americans are a valued and integral part of our state and our nation.”
Message to Elected Officials:
CAIR-NJ encourages elected leaders at the municipal, county, state, and federal levels to utilize the guide as a tool for engagement. Simple gestures — issuing a Ramadan proclamation, visiting a local mosque, hosting or attending an iftar, or publicly extending Eid greetings — send a powerful message of inclusion and solidarity.
The guide is available for download at https://cair-nj.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Ramadan-One-Pager-for-Elected-Officials-2.pdf. Hard copies can be requested by contacting CAIR-NJ Government Affairs Associate Maheen Mumtaz at mmumtaz@cair.com.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
END
CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut, smaksut@cair.com, 862-264-9414