Birmingham celebrates Ramadan 2025 launch, marking the holy month and ISRA-UK’s 40 years of global aid.
Folks from all over the West Midlands attended. This launch occurred before Ramadan officially started, as the holy month was expected to begin soon, likely with the first fast on either March 1 or 2.
The Moseley Community Hub hosted this party, organized by the charity, ISRA-UK. Guests sampled various Middle Eastern dishes, with quiches, pies, sandwiches, and wings being served. Desserts, such as baklava, provided a sweet ending to the meal.
Saraya Hussain spoke about the importance of Ramadan, noting Birmingham’s significant Muslim population. Ramadan is a time for mercy and increased spirituality, involving fasting from dawn until dusk each day.
ISRA-UK created special Ramadan Iftar packs this year. These included calendars and activity books specifically designed for children, along with decorations and donation boxes. Schools proved to be very popular locations for their distribution.
Habib Mohammed discussed ISRA-UK’s ongoing aid work, which has spanned over forty years globally. Ramadan is a period dedicated to reflection and helping those in need, encouraging Muslims to increase their charitable giving. Zakat, the duty of sharing wealth, is particularly emphasized during this month.
Ramadan actively fosters community togetherness. Iftar meals, where the daily fast is broken, occur nightly. Families often host these meals both at home and in mosques. Selbin Kabote, a refugee who attended the event, expressed his appreciation for shared faith practices.
Kabote finds strong similarities between Ramadan and Christian fasting practices, noting that both emphasize reflection and aiding others. He also expressed his admiration for ISRA-UK’s dedicated work across the world, highlighting their operations in countries like Turkey and Uganda.
ISRA-UK was established in 1984 as a charity dedicated to providing aid across multiple continents. Their main organizational office is currently located in Birmingham.