The Empire State Building in New York City has recently been illuminated in green to honour the conclusion of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The building is an iconic landmark and the use of green is symbolic of Islam, which denotes peace and purity. Muslims across the globe are celebrating Eid ul Fitr, which marks the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan.
Glowing in green tonight in Honor of Eid al-Fitr
IG/nycforgo pic.twitter.com/XECH7W9MJ3
— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) April 20, 2023
Significance of Eid ul Fitr
Eid ul Fitr is one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar. The festival marks the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan. Muslims around the world fast during the daylight hours of Ramadan, refraining from food, water, and other physical needs. The aim of the fasting is to purify the soul, practice self-discipline and empathy, and to remind oneself of the importance of giving back to those in need. After a month of fasting, Muslims celebrate Eid ul Fitr as a way of showing gratitude and offering thanks to Allah.
Read More: Celebrating diversity: How Catholic archbishops in Italy are promoting unity during Eid Al-Fitr
Importance of This Gesture
The illumination of the Empire State Building in green to honour Eid ul Fitr was special for several reasons. Firstly, it was a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance of the Muslim community in New York City. The Empire State Building is a Symbolic structure, and the use of green demonstrated the recognition of the importance of this festival. Secondly, it was a way of celebrating diversity and promoting cultural awareness. The building’s illumination drew attention to the fact that Muslims across the globe were celebrating Eid ul Fitr, and it was a reminder that we should celebrate our differences and embrace diversity. Lastly, it was a beautiful gesture that brought joy to the Muslim community, who felt acknowledged and appreciated.
Celebrations of Eid ul Fitr
Muslims across the globe celebrate Eid ul Fitr with zest and zeal. The Gulf States, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, are home to a significant Muslim population. The people in these countries celebrate Eid ul Fitr with great enthusiasm. The festivities usually last for three days and involve feasting, shopping, and spending time with family and friends. The people of Saudi Arabia also celebrate the festival by lighting up landmarks and monuments, including the clock tower structure outside the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
Celebrations in the United States and Canada
Muslims in the United States and Canada also celebrate Eid ul Fitr with great fervour. The Muslim population in North America is diverse, with people hailing from different countries and cultural backgrounds. Despite the diversity, the celebrations of Eid ul Fitr bring people together, as they come to offer prayers, exchange greetings, and share traditional foods. The Empire State Building’s glowing green illumination in honour of Eid ul Fitr is a testament to the acceptance and inclusivity of the Muslim community in New York City.
Read More: Soaring inflation dampens Eid holiday spirit in crisis-hit Pakistan
Eid ul Fitr is an important religious festival for Muslims across the globe. The festival marks the end of the month-long fasting period of Ramadan and serves as a reminder of the importance of self-discipline, empathy, and giving back to those in need. The celebrations of Eid ul Fitr bring people together, regardless of their cultural backgrounds or nationalities. The illumination of the Empire State Building in green to honour Eid ul Fitr was a beautiful gesture that exemplifies the acknowledgement and embrace of the Muslim community in New York City. Hopefully,this kind of outreach will foster greater understanding and respect between different cultures in New York City, leading to stronger relationships and a more inclusive society.