Governor Dean's Message on Eid Al Fitr

With the coming of the new moon, Muslims across America and around the world mark the end of Ramadan. This celebration, known as Eid-Al-Fitr, is a day of joy, thanksgiving, and charity. Governor Dean issued this message today:

Eid Mubarak! As Muslims around the world celebrate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a month of fasting, charity, and reflection, I join you in praying for peace and understanding.

Freedom of religion is a founding principle of our nation. America has prospered and flourished and is now the greatest democracy on earth, in part, because we have welcomed people of all faith traditions. Muslims are as diverse as America, representing every race and ethnicity, and are an integral part of the fabric of our nation.

We are at a time in our nation's history when we need people of goodwill, people of conscience, to come together to promote peace - as Islam teaches. Real understanding - real progress - can only come about when we are all willing to look beyond our differences and embrace our common humanity.

During this joyous time of year, as families of many faiths and traditions gather together to celebrate and offer thanksgiving, I join all Americans in praying for peace and harmony in America and throughout the world.

Dr. Howard Dean is a US Presidential candidate for 2004