A Ramadan Gathering Focused on Peace and Understanding
In an inspiring display of unity and shared values, the American Muslim and Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council (AMMWEC) partnered with the House of Ruach and Universal Peace Federation (UPF) to host an Interfaith Iftar at the Washington Times Building on March 26, 2025. This significant gathering brought together diverse voices to celebrate Ramadan while reaffirming a collective commitment to fostering peace, compassion, and understanding between people of various religious faiths.
The evening was a vibrant blend of faith, reflection, and dialogue, highlighting the importance of building bridges between communities at a time when the world is in dire need of empathy and cooperation. Leaders from various religious traditions, diplomats, NGO representatives, and advocates joined together to break bread and engage in meaningful conversations about advancing peace and justice.
Building Bridges Through Shared Traditions
“The spirit of Ramadan teaches us the value of reflection, empathy, and extending a hand to others,” said Anila Ali, President of AMMWEC. “A few years ago, I witnessed what was impossible—an Arab from UAE and an Israeli from Sharaka walk through my door. That friendship and alliance has led to multiple trips of Muslims to Israel.”
Ali further emphasized the organization’s commitment to peace: “I’m honored on behalf of my board, for the stand we took, against threats to our lives, to be the only Muslim women’s organization that signed on to the Abraham Accords. And since then our feet have not faltered and our iftar is a testament to our shared humanity and our commitment to cultivating a more compassionate and inclusive society.”
A Platform for Global Collaboration
Set against the backdrop of the Washington Times Building, the event provided a platform for leaders to explore avenues for collaboration on pressing global issues, including religious freedom, human rights, and community resilience. Guests enjoyed live regional music from Algeria and Morocco, alongside Pakistani and Kosher cuisine—a thoughtful culinary representation of the diverse communities present.
Attendees heard from practitioners including representatives of Sharaka, an organization dedicated to fostering person-to-person encounters to facilitate heart change. Diplomats from the embassies of Albania, Malaysia, and The Kingdom of the Netherlands also participated, offering international perspectives on interfaith cooperation.
Celebrating Diversity Within Unity
The gathering provided an opportunity for guests to observe the traditions associated with the Holy month of Ramadan, reflecting together on the transformative power of coming together across faith lines to address challenges facing our communities.
Particularly noteworthy was the diversity of the Muslim attendees themselves, with participants from Syria, Bahrain, Malaysia, Chad, Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Morocco, and Algeria—showcasing the beautiful diversity of the Muslim community in America.
Moving Forward Together
As we continue to navigate a world often divided by misunderstanding, events like this Interfaith Iftar remind us of our shared humanity and the power of breaking bread together. By creating spaces for meaningful dialogue and cultural exchange, organizations like AMMWEC, House of Ruach, and UPF are helping to build a foundation for lasting peace and understanding.
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