Eid Al Fitr is one of the most important festivals for Muslims around the world. And this year, the UAE has declared a long weekend while the people in Qatar are enjoying a whopping 11-day holiday for the celebration of this festival. However, while Middle East and South Asian countries celebrate this festival with great exuberance, it’s not the same story in countries like the USA. It is not recognised as an official public holiday in the US, which means American Muslims often have to seek a holiday to observe this festival from their employers or academic institutions. However, a city in the state of Michigan has become the first to offer an Eid al-Fitr holiday.
Dearborn In Michigan Becomes The First City To Offer Eid Holiday
Dearborn is a city in Michigan that according to the 2020 census had a population of 109,976 at the time. According to a report by Khaleej Times, Mayor Abdullah Hammoud admitted that this was the first time a municipal or city hall had closed for Eid. It’s worth mentioning that his family hails from Lebanon. Moreover, Dearborn as a city has a vast Arab population, which includes people from countries like Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, and Yemen.
Also Read: Eid 2023: 7 Places To Celebrate The Joyous Occasion Family & Friends In UAE
It Is Also Home To The Largest Mosque In America
Talking about the city, it is also home to the biggest mosque in the country called the Islamic Centre of America. People are obviously rejoicing about this declaration and they are related to finding that their religion is now also being taken into consideration. Many as a result are taking off with their family. Eid al-Fitr for those who aren’t aware is another important festival for Muslims around the world as it marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The day usually goes by in greeting, prayers, and feasting with one’s family and friends. And with Middle Eastern countries celebrating Eid on April 21, this is certainly an exciting development.
Are you celebrating Eid? If so, what are your plans for Eid this year?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons