Shares

On March 29, Representative Suleman Lalani, M.D. (D-Sugar Land) hosted the first official Iftar to be celebrated in the Texas State Capitol. The event, honoring the opening of the Ramadan fast on Wednesday, is the latest symbol of the historical importance of elected Muslim representatives in November 2022.

Attended by nearly 75 people, it was a gathering of persons of faith, in unity, for the season of fasting observed by many of the world’s religions.

“The month of Ramadan has much in common with the observances of other faiths around the world, such as the Jewish observance of Yom Kippur and the Christian season of Lent. This is why I wanted to bring together my colleagues to witness my faith traditions, and to share theirs,” said Representative Lalani.

The evening included a recitation of the Qur’an and a call to prayer by Imam Attia Omara, a scholarly question and answer period on Ramadan by Muslim community member Salim Jaffer, and the sharing of  Jewish and Christian faith traditions by Representative Jon Rosenthal (D-Cypress) and Representative Terry Meza (D-Irving).

“I am honored that House Speaker Dade Phelan joined us and spoke of his Catholic faith and how it is more important than ever for the Texas Legislature to unite to make this session a success. My colleagues, Rep. Rosenthal and Rep. Meza shared how observance to their traditions of Yom Kippur and Lent have enriched their lives,” Lalani said. “Moreover, I am happy that we have entered a new era in the Texas House, one where all religions can feel welcome and at home and all of us can mutually benefit from one another.”