NEICC RAMADAN ACTIVITIES

Turkish Cultural Center and North East Islamic Community Center organized a Ramadan Tent.

This year, the event took place over the span of two days – the first day of Ramadan, which was June 28th and Sunday 29th. The opening night was particularly poignant and special because, for the first time at a Ramadan event here, we had representatives from three different faiths; Imam Orhan Cetin, Fr. Brian Dowd and Rabbi Irvin Goldenberg, which made this one of the most truly interfaith Ramadan gatherings in New York. Each of these men spoke about the meaning of fasting in their respective religions and the need for tolerance and acceptance within our society, in addition to giving their individual blessing on the event.

It is difficult to put a number on the amount of people who joined us each night for the Iftar dinners, as some people came and left while others came and stayed for the evening, but we know that about 1700 free meals were served to members of the public from every faith and culture throughout New York City – everyone sitting side by side, talking, making new friends and enjoying good food together.

The atmosphere was relaxed and easy as guests listened to traditional Turkish music by Amir Vahab and his group and beautiful, serene music by Yusuf Gurtas on the ney. The weather co-operated wonderfully, staying dry and cool throughout both evenings.