The Canadian Muslim Union proudly joins Salaam Canada in their Peace Iftar

When:

Friday, September 19, 2008 - 6:20 PM to 10:20 PM

Where:

At the Steelworkers Hall - 25 Cecil St. South of College Street between Universtity & Spadina.

What:

Iftar is the breaking of the Fast during the holy month of Ramadan. During this month, Muslims around the world do not eat or drink from sunrise to sunset. Iftar is when family and friends gather to celebrate the simple things that this world has to offer.

This is day 18 of Ramadan (due to difference in interpretation, various groups may have a slightly different date). Fasting in Toronto on this day is done from 5:43 AM until 7:22 PM.

We will begin with a Call to Prayer followed by appetizers, and introductions of various groups and individuals, including the host organizations.

Anyone is invited to join in communal prayer regardless of religion, faith, or creed. However, participation is not mandatory.

After the prayer, a meal will be served. Participants are encouraged to mingle and socialize with old friends and make new ones.

Why:

Ramadan is a month on the Muslim lunar calendar that begins from the flight of the Muslims from Mecca to Medina in search of Sanctuary and Human Dignity.

We are in the year 1429 AH.

Ramadan is the month when the first verse of the Quràn was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. This verse is known as "Iqra" or "Read".

Who:

The Ramadan Break-Fast Dinner has been an annual event hosted by Salaam: Queer Muslim Community since 2003, and joined by Canadian Muslim Union as co-sponsor since 2006. This year we are pleased to also be joined by Africans in partnership against AIDS.

It is open to ALL regardless of religion, gender, sexual orientation, race, class, or disability*.

Participants are encouraged [but not required] to join in fasting on that day.

Participants are asked to confirm (RSVP "yes" or "no" only, "maybe" responses are not helpful. If in doubt, wait until you are sure, but please give us a few days notice) their participation through facebook, by sending an e-mail to: peaceiftar@muslimunion.ca or by submitting this form:

How:

Participants are not expected to Fast. However, they are welcome to have done so if they are interested and able to do so.

We will "walk" participants through the ceremonies of the Fast, prayer and introduce them to foods from Muslim cultures that are also traditional foods during Ramadan.

Participants are requested to bring a bring a non-alcoholic beverage or dessert. In addition, those who are able are requested to make a $10 - $20 donation to help defray costs.

The Canadian Muslim Union proudly joins Salaam Canada in their Peace Iftar

I will be there!