Ramadan is an exceptional month by all standards, whether in Islamic countries or in the non-Muslim world. What is the value and importance of this month for Muslims in Winnipeg, and what makes it different and special for them, perhaps more than Muslims in Arab and Islamic countries? 

Journalist Zuher Almusre from U Multicultural channel hosted Ruheen Aziz, Board Member, Manitoba Islamic Association (MIA), and asked her about the importance of Ramadan for the Muslim community in Winnipeg, and the challenges facing them during the month of Ramadan. 

 
Ruheen said that the month of Ramadan is not like any other month for the Muslim community in Winnipeg. We feel that we are getting stronger and loving each other, and our relations are becoming closer to each other. MIA also has been organizing many activities daily to gather the largest number of members of the Islamic community in one place to break the fast and pray collectively. We have designated places for children, so the parents can spend a quiet and enjoyable time without fear for their children. 

 
Ruheen also added that we, as Muslims in Winnipeg, miss our families in our country, as the atmosphere there is completely different. But we always positively look at our presence here, so we celebrate this annual occasion with each other as one family and create the atmosphere that makes us feel happy as if we are among our own families. 

 
Ruheen also talked about the preparations of MIA for the celebration Eid al-Fitr, and places for prayer. She wished the Islamic community in Winnipeg all the happiness and success. 

Stay tuned for more Civic discussions on Civic Platform: https://u-channel.ca/civic-journalism/  

Contact Zuher Almusre, our civic journalist, to share your story and explore civic issues at zuheralmusre@u-channel.ca.   

The project is funded by the Department of Canadian Heritage and administered by the Canadian Association of Community Television Users and Stations (CACTUS).