Eid ul Fitr thanks!

On this day of Eid ul Fitr, I would like to thank all Muslims who are following government advice to stay at home so as not to spread the COVID-19 coronavirus.

For the last 30 days, Muslims in Solihull and all over the world have been fasting, from dawn till dusk, during the Islamic month of Ramadan.  Fasting for 30 days is tough on the body at the best of times, especially on these long summer days in the UK, when fasting typically starts at 3:30am and ends at 9pm.

Another important element of Ramadan, and Eid, is spending time with friends and family.  Eid is a time when Muslims throw open their doors to family and friends, whatever their religious beliefs, to celebrate a joyous occasion.

This year, however, due to the lockdown, Muslims all across the land are quietly celebrating Eid at home.  None of the usual early morning mass gatherings for Eid prayers as everyone observes the lockdown.  Whilst this will be particularly tough on Muslim families, who are used to gathering together for such occasions, we all understand the need to protect our loved ones, and the wider community, against coronavirus.

As you all stay at home and celebrate in your own small way, I wish you a happy Eid and I look forward to when we can all meet again.  In the meantime, please stay at home and keep safe.

Eid Mubarak!

Councillor Ade Adeyemo.