Asalaamu Alaikum,

Allow me take this opportunity to wish you and your family, a blessed and joyous Eid Mubarak.

As yet another Ramadan comes to pass under restrictions, it must be recognised that this has been a time in which Muslim communities across the UK have continued showing great resolve and patience. British Muslims have adapted and sacrificed in order to observe the most sacred time in the Islamic calendar, and have strived to keep our communities safe from the very outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. I remain in awe of the resilience, resolve and devotion of British Muslims throughout this time.

I have had the pleasure of participating in numerous virtual iftars, bringing together communities across the UK. This year, the Muslim Council of Britain also hosted an interfaith iftar in which community and faith leaders came together to share their reflections on the importance of giving during hardship. The event highlighted the remarkable contribution of all faith communities and explored how we can continue to work together. The MCB also held a national day of thanks, in which MCB affiliates across the nation shared gifts to local front-line key workers.

However, at this time I also find that my heart is heavy. It would be remiss of me to not mention the suffering we have borne witness to in the final nights of the holy month of Ramadan. Indeed, the desecration of Masjid Al-Aqsa, the attack on worshippers on the most sacred of nights and Gaza and the dispossession of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah, has affected us all deeply. Let us reaffirm our commitment to justice and the upholding of international law, and, as we prepare to celebrate the blessed occasion of Eid Al Fitr, let us remember and make du'a for all those who face oppression and injustice, all those whose hearts carry pain and those that may spend this time in solitude. May the Almighty shower His mercy and blessings upon one and all, Ameen.

Finally, this year, I would also like to take this opportunity to commend all our affiliates for their tireless efforts in service of their communities, be it locally, regionally or indeed on a national scale. May the Almighty accept your efforts and reward you all abundantly.

From myself and the MCB team, to you and yours, Eid Mubarak.

Zara Mohammed

Secretary-General MCB