Biden shares message of support for American Muslims on Eid al-Adha

President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden marked Eid al-Adha on Sunday with a message of support for American Muslims.

Eid al-Adha is the second major holiday in Islam. It typically consists of prayers and a communal feast commemorating remembrance and sacrifice. It is also the most common time for the pilgrimage to Mecca, Islam’s holy city.

“The Hajj and Eid al-Adha remind us of our equality before God and the importance of community and charity – values that speak directly to the American character,” Biden said in a statement. “The United States is fortunate to be home to millions of Muslim Americans who enrich our nation in countless ways, from medicine to technology, education, public service, the arts and beyond. »

The president also took the opportunity to make remarks about the war between Israel and Hamas, which has increased tensions between Muslims and Jews in the United States, with an increase in hate crimes against both groups over the past year. Last year.

“This year, Eid al-Adha comes at a difficult time for many Muslims around the world. In Gaza, innocent civilians are suffering the horrors of the war between Hamas and Israel,” Biden said. “My government is doing everything in its power to end the war, release all hostages, provide humanitarian assistance, and work toward a future two-state solution, which I continue to believe is the only way to achieve to lasting peace for the Palestinians. and the Israelis.

He also stressed the need to resolve conflicts in Sudan and combat the persecution of Muslims in Myanmar and China.

“That’s why I’m committed to fighting the scourge of Islamophobia in the United States,” Biden said. “Hate has no place in America, whether it is aimed at Muslim Americans, Arab Americans, including Palestinians, or anyone else. »

“In the spirit of Eid al-Adha, let us all renew our commitment to the values that unite us – compassion, empathy, and mutual respect – that are both American and Islamic,” he continued. “We look forward to welcoming home our American Muslim pilgrims who have earned the title of ‘Al-Hajj.’ To them and to all Muslims around the world, we wish a blessed and meaningful holiday. Eid Mubarak!”

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming videos, visit The Hill.