In a show of solidarity, Muslim leaders in the United States took a principled stand by rejecting an invitation to the White House breaking the fast dinner, expressing their displeasure with the Biden administration’s stance on the Gaza conflict.
The decision to skip traditional Ramadan prayers comes amid regional tensions and a humanitarian crisis affecting Palestinians.
Ramadan, the holy month of fasting and meditation for Muslims around the world, usually concludes with a joyful iftar meal with loved ones. However, this year there has been a stir among American Muslim leaders because they rejected an invitation from the White House and expressed solidarity with the Palestinians suffering in the Gaza war.
According to the New York Times, the decision to decline the invitation arose out of trouble over President Joe Biden’s support for Israeli military action in Gaza. Many participants expressed their displeasure with the celebration, as the Palestinians face a terrible situation under siege.
Gumurtik pushed the White House to expand the event by holding smaller meetings for staff. Emgage, a prominent Muslim advocacy group, has played a key role in voicing public concerns and calling on President Biden to quickly address the humanitarian crisis affecting the Palestinians.
Thayer Ahmed, a Palestinian American doctor who witnessed the dire situation in Gaza, questioned the relevance of discussing hunger and food. Despite declining an initial invitation, Ahmad and other community leaders met privately with President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
The effect of this symbolic gesture is not in the beginning, but it reflects the anger of the American Muslim community against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Concerns have emerged about declining support in key battleground states such as Michigan, where some groups have shown reluctance to support Biden in the upcoming election.
As President Biden seeks to gain support before the November election, his campaign faces an uphill battle to attract Arab American voters, especially in swing states like Michigan.
