Dear John,

Growing up as a Muslim in LA was at times challenging. Often I was the only Muslim kid in public school. When Christmas, Hanukkah, or other holidays came around I saw how they were celebrated by classmates, and acknowledged in public and private spaces with displays and lighting ceremonies. Not so for Ramadan. The 7-day weather forecast on the news always highlighted other holidays, not so for Eid. So I resigned to the thought that would never be the case for Ramadan or Eid.

So that’s why seeing City Hall lit up in celebration of Ramadan this year filled me with joy. It renewed my hope that our city is capable of growing and understanding all members of its community. It showed my family that our faith is respected and valued in our city, and it has given my children a sense of belonging that I did not always have when I was their age.

This Ramadan, I’m thankful for MPAC, because without their efforts, this recognition would not have happened. Again and again, they have shown a true commitment to advocating for Muslims, pushing back against hate, and making sure that the concerns of our communities are heard.

If you’re looking to make a zakat eligible donation, I urge you to give to MPAC and support their ongoing efforts to promote change for American Muslims today. The impact of their work is shifting perspectives of Islam for the better.

Their 2:1 matching campaign is still live. If you donate today, you can double your impact.

God bless us as we strive in His cause,

Omar Ricci
MPAC Board Member

P.S. This Eid, plan a trip to City Hall or the Sixth Street Bridge with your kids… they will both be lit up once again for three nights to celebrate the end of Ramadan!