fact sheet - dvmcf.netdvmcf.net/files/meeting3/dvlm-eid-factsheet.pdf · morning to give charity...
TRANSCRIPT
Fact Sheet
WHO: The Philadelphia metropolitan area is home to more than 200,000 Muslims*, one of the highest
populations of Muslims in the United States. These numbers equate to:
Approximately 20% of Philadelphia public school students in grades (K - 12) are Muslim.
5 2 mosques are located in the City of Philadelphia.
WHAT: Muslims observe and celebrate two religious holidays Eid ul Fitr and Eid u l Adha , and desire
inclusion as legal holidays on the City and school district calendars;
Eid u l - Fitr , or the Feast of Breaking the Fast, is an important religious
holida y celebrated by Muslim s worldwide. It marks the end of Ramada n , the
Islami c holy month of fa s tin g . The communal aspects begin with large gatherings in the
morning to give charity for the poor, followed by prayer, a sermon and well wishes. Day
long celebrations include gifts for the children, feasts of food from all over the world, and
visits to the homes of family and friends.
Eid ul - Adha , or the Feast of Sacrifice, is the major religious holiday celebrated by almost
two billion Muslims around the globe. It coincides with the end of the Muslim pilgrimage
to Mecca, the largest and most universal religious gathering on earth. During the day
Muslims reflect on Prophet Abraham, who was so obedient to God that he was willing to
sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael. Communal activities include large gatherings for
prayer and a sermon, and the giving of food and charity to the less fortunate neighbors in
the community.
WHY: Muslim children, adults, families and the culture of their community should be
fully recognized and included in the life of Philadelphia public schools and
public services.
HOW: The legal observance of the two Eids as holidays on the City of Philadelphia’s school and municipal calendars.
WHEN: 20 15 legal adoption of Eids as Holidays; 2016 implementation
* Pew May 2015
Here are 7 Ways YOU Can Help!
1. Like and Follow us on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/Philly-Eid-Coalition-
1473220142985857/. Invite your Facebook friends to like and follow us too.
2. Text "2eids" to 24587 to join our list of supporters and for campaign updates.
3. Sign our online petition (coming in November) to the Philadelphia Mayor and City Council,
asking them to include the 2 Eids as recognized holidays.
4. Volunteer to help with community outreach. We need to educate and mobilize Muslims as well
as non-Muslims. Email us at [email protected] to register as a volunteer.
5. Make a contribution. The campaign has some cost to produce informational materials and to
manage various social media. Please make donations payable to Religious Holiday Equity
PAC, 7300 City Line Avenue, Suite 360, Philadelphia, PA 19151.
6. Help your Masjid join with Masajid around the Delaware Valley in recognizing “Eid Coalition
Day” at Jumah Prayers on November 27, 2015. (check our Facebook page soon for more
information)
7. Email us at [email protected] with suggestions or to volunteer.