For the first time in two decades the White House will not host a Ramadan dinner. The Trump administration is no stranger to breaking tradition, and instead of hosting a dinner, President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump chose to put out a statement offering “warm greeting” to the Muslim community. The Hill reports:
President Trump issued a statement Saturday greeting Muslims as they celebrate the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, breaking with nearly two decades of tradition of holding an iftar dinner to commemorate Ramadan.
“On behalf of the American people,” President Trump said in the statement, “Melania and I send our warm greetings to Muslims as they celebrate Eid al-Fitr.”
The holiday marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.
The dinners began under President Clinton and were continued by President George W. Bush and Barack Obama. The iftar dinner at the White House is usually attended by prominent members of the Muslim community, diplomats and Congress members.
“Muslims in the United States joined those around the world during the holy month of Ramadan to focus on acts of faith and charity,” Trump said. “During this holiday, we are reminded of the importance of mercy, compassion, and goodwill. With Muslims around the world, the United States renews our commitment to honor these values.”
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