On April 20, 2023, the Peace Islands Institute Pennsylvania, the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, and the Philadelphia Commission on Faith-based and Interfaith Affairs collaborated to host an interfaith iftar celebration at Philadelphia City Hall. The event sought to bring together leaders and members from various faith and community groups, fostering dialogue and understanding as they shared a meal and explored each other’s traditions and cultures, centering on the coinciding observances of Ramadan, Passover, and Easter this year.

The gathering commenced with opening remarks from Romana Lee-Akiyama, Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement, who welcomed Mayor Jim Kenney to the podium. Mayor Kenney spoke about the, expressing gratitude for the rare alignment of Ramadan, Passover, and Easter, which occurs only three times per century or once every 33 years. He highlighted the unique opportunity this provided for attendees to discover the common threads that connect them all. Following the mayor’s speech, musicians entertained the crowd as guests mingled and shared insights with one another. M. Said Selmanlar extended a warm welcome on behalf of PII PA. Subsequently, Randy Duque, PCHR Deputy Director, delivered an insightful opening address centered around the event’s theme. Moreover, he praised the institute as a commendable “peace-making agency.”

Building on the spirit of unity and understanding established earlier in the event, Rabbi Eli Freedman from Congregation Rodeph Shalom shared interfaith insights, stressing the significance of justice and renewal. He identified connections between Ash Wednesday, Ramadan, and Passover, underlining the themes of reconnection and rejuvenation.

Imam Quaiser Abdullah from Quba Masjid also addressed the gathering, urging participants to concentrate on small yet consistent actions. He noted, “There’s something for each of us to do, no matter how small or significant – I guarantee it’s significant to someone.”

Reverend Naomi Washington-Leapheart reflected on the unparalleled times we live in and the necessity for mutual support to navigate these challenges. She poignantly stated, “You know how our eyes adjust to the light? My eyes have adjusted to death. Maybe we need each other to see well.” Reverend Washington-Leapheart emphasized the value of “productive collisions” in teaching us how to help one another see more clearly.

As sunset approached, Imam Ibrahim Atasoy performed the adhan (call to prayer), signaling the time to break the fast. Guests then proceeded to the open buffet, continuing their conversations and fostering connections over a shared meal. Followed by Lucy Duncan’s prayer for the enhancement and progress of our society, with the attendees joining in solidarity.

Overall, the event served as a platform to demonstrate unity against prejudice and foster stronger connections among diverse faith and community groups. Both organizers and participants conveyed gratitude for the chance to engage with and acquire knowledge from one another