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State
Department Renews Commitment to Honor Ramadan
Secretary Powell Hosts Annual Iftar Dinner
(Washington,
DC 12/03/01) In a gesture of peace and understanding to the American Muslim community,
hundreds of Muslim guests were invited to break their fast
at the State Department with Secretary of State Colin Powell.
The guests included Imams of mosques, activists, representatives
of national Muslim organizations, and Muslim members of the
armed forces. Unable to personally attend, the Chairman of
the Islamic Supreme Council of America, Shaykh Mohammed Hisham
Kabbani was represented by Director of Inter-Religious Affairs
Ken Bromund.
Proclaiming
America as a 'nation of nations', Mr. Powell addressed the
members of the American Muslim community in the spirit of
affirming the contributions Muslims have made to our country.
Mr. Powell acknowledged several Muslim members of the U.S.
armed forces who had distinguished themselves in the service
of their country in the aftermath of the September 11 tragedy.
Mr. Powell's
received much applause for his declaration that the United
States will not abandon Afghanistan after the end of the current
conflict, but would help rebuild and ensure that a balanced
government is established, one which upholds women's participation.
Sympathizing with the problem of profiling in the Muslim American
community, Mr. Powell noted, 'I am a minority' - and related
a story of how difficult that has been for him.
The event
began as the call to prayer was raised. Graciously waiting
while the assembled Muslims broke their fast before making
his address, the Secretary of State invited Dr. Hendi to lead
the gathered guests in a prayer for peace before dinner.
ISCA chairman
Shaykh Muhammad Hisham Kabbani noted that this event is a
sign of the Administration's good faith towards Muslims in
America. He said, "This iftar is a gesture of goodwill
to Muslims. We must respond with cooperation.in seeking out
the perpetrators of terror who may be hiding within our ranks."
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