‘Not your typical Ramadan’: Muslim Americans focus on Gaza in holy month
Al Jazeera
Muslim Americans have rebuffed some politicians, held fundraisers and scaled back festivities to show support for Gaza.
Washington, DC – Standing outside the White House, Mohamad Habehh placed his right hand on his face and closed his eyes in a sign of spiritual devotion, reciting the Muslim call for prayer.
“Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar [God is greatest, God is greatest].” The words announced the end of a day of fasting as dozens of people gathered last week to protest against President Joe Biden’s support for Israel’s war on Gaza and an iftar meal the White House was hosting for government employees.
The demonstrators had their own iftar outside, despite the gloomy weather that evening, breaking their fast with dates, a shawarma sandwich and a bottle of water.
“End the siege on Gaza now. Free, free Palestine,” the crowd chanted as the rain intensified, drenching a large Palestinian flag fluttering on the edge of Pennsylvania Avenue. “Not another nickel, not another dime, no more money for Israel’s crimes.”
Their humble meal, preceded by communal prayers on the soaked pavement underscored the push by many Muslim Americans to prioritise Gaza activism during the holy month, which is normally a time of joy and reflection.
