Explanation
Title
To recognize the celebration of Ramadan in Columbus and to honor the work of the Council on American-Islamic Relations to encourage dialogue, empower American Muslims, promote cultural understanding throughout Central Ohio.
Body
WHEREAS, Columbus is proud to be called home by more than 40,000 people of Muslim faith, who contribute greatly to the multicultural diversity and spiritual strength of Central Ohio; and
WHEREAS, Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar Islamic calendar in which people of Muslim faith, in accordance with one of the five Pillars of Islam, fast from dawn until sunset in worship and devotion to their faith; and
WHEREAS, the Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio), America's largest Islamic civil liberties group and an instrumental agent in reminding the citizens of Columbus of the importance of this month to all Ohioans, is dedicated to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding; and
WHEREAS, to promote cultural understanding, all citizens of Columbus should have the full opportunity to join with Muslim brothers and sisters in observing and celebrating this important month; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby recognize the celebration of Ramadan in Columbus and honors the work of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in empowering American Muslims and promoting cultural understanding throughout Central Ohio.