Photo: Views and News
U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has greeted Muslims on the occasion of Eid ul Fitr, saying the United States is proud of the achievements of its 3.4 million American Muslims.
The top American diplomat said American Muslims “deeply enrich our social fabric on a daily basis.”
Pompeo’s recognition of the contributions of U.S. Muslims follows President Trump’s hosting of an Iftar at the White House, marking a change in approach toward Muslims.
The Administration has been facing criticism in the wake of last year’s travel ban against nationals of Muslim majority countries and the rhetoric around issues like immigration and terrorist violence.
But in his message, Pompeo also renewed the U.S. commitment to pluralism.Here is Pompeo’s Eid greetings message as released by the State Department:
“On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, I extend my best wishes to our Muslim friends and partners celebrating Eid al-Fitr.
This holiday marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting, charity, compassion, and reflection. Eid al-Fitr reminds all of us in the United States and abroad, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, to maintain the spirit and lessons of Ramadan throughout the year: to promote peace, to be of service to those who are suffering and displaced, to respect diversity, and to empathize with everyone around us.
The United States is proud of the strong relationships we have built with Muslim nations and communities around the world. We are also proud of the contributions of the 3.4 million American Muslims who deeply enrich our social fabric on a daily basis. These contributions reflect the United States’ bedrock principles of religious pluralism and public service.
As you mark this special holiday with loved ones, I wish you peace and prosperity in the coming year. Eid Mubarak.”