Thousands of Muslim Londoners gathered at the BMO Centre in Old East Village to celebrate Eid al-Fitr and mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Both London police and CN Rail police helped manage the traffic and large crowds in and around the Western Fair District. Morning prayers were followed by a festival with food, children’s entertainment, and a bazaar. Attendees like Andrew Rahous and Mohammed Razk expressed their excitement for the holiday and their plans to spend time with family. Rahous mentioned that his wife’s large extended family will be visiting different houses over the next three days to celebrate together. Razk, on the other hand, expressed his desire to spend more time with his family and enjoy a special dinner.
Razk encouraged non-Muslims to join in the celebrations, mentioning that Eid is a non-secular holiday where everyone is treated equally. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and spreading love during the festivities. Despite the joyous occasion, this year’s Eid celebrations were tinged with sadness due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Rahous and Razk expressed their concerns and empathy for those suffering in Gaza, which made it difficult for them to fully celebrate knowing the hardships others are facing. Razk, who has family in Gaza, highlighted the struggles they endure, especially during important celebrations like Eid and Ramadan.
Razk mentioned his plan to fast a few extra days after the end of Ramadan in solidarity with the people of Gaza, hoping to gain a better understanding of their experiences. This year, Ramadan took place from March 10 to April 9, with Eid al-Fitr following for three days from April 10 to April 12. Despite the challenges faced by Muslims in Gaza, the London community came together to support and pray for those in need during the Eid celebrations. The holiday served as a reminder of the importance of compassion, unity, and solidarity among all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds.
The spirit of Eid al-Fitr was evident as Londoners from diverse backgrounds came together to celebrate and share in the joy of the holiday. The festival at the BMO Centre provided a platform for families to enjoy time together, partake in delicious food, and engage in various activities. The inclusive nature of the celebrations allowed people of all faiths to join in and experience the traditions and customs of Eid. Despite the somber undertone due to the situation in Gaza, the London community showed resilience and compassion by coming together to support those in need and pray for a better future for all.
As the festivities continue over the three days following Ramadan, attendees like Rahous and Razk expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate with loved ones. Rahous reflected on the significance of Eid as a time to come together and show love and appreciation for family and friends. Razk, in his efforts to empathize with those less fortunate, demonstrated the spirit of generosity and solidarity that defines the essence of Eid. The importance of supporting and uplifting communities in times of hardship was emphasized, highlighting the resilience and compassion of the London Muslim community in the face of challenging circumstances.
