Muslims throng in Skokie for Eid celebrations

BY A STAFF WRITER

SKOKIE (IL) — On July 28, Muslims from all over the metropolitan area joyfully bustled into the Holiday Inn, 5300 Touhy Ave, Skokie, IL to join the global celebrations of Eid-Ul-Fitr.

While there were various venues that held Eid prayers throughout the region, one of the largest turnouts was at the Holiday Inn. The block was quite a sight to passersby. Groups of individuals in vibrant Indian-Pakistani clothing flooded the parking lots as they made their way to the exquisite banquet hall to commemorate the glorious day.

Namaz was recited throughout the morning and afternoon to accommodate the 9,000 enthusiastic individuals in attendance. Despite the large masses, the Skokie Police, Holiday Inn Staff, and numerous volunteers were able to direct the crowds effortlessly and efficiently.

The leader of the congregation was a local scholar (i.e. Mufti) and fashion designer (see kamanionline.com) named Hussain Kamani. He hyped up the crowd by delivering a phenomenal talk on the sacrifices and reward for the Muslim’s hard work.

The thousands that gathered at the Holiday Inn in Skokie made the message of Eid clear to all. It is simply about loving one another, offering friendship to fellow beings, and living in peace and harmony.

In a statement, Governor Pat Quinn said: “To the more than 400,000 Muslims across our state, ‘Eid Mubarak! Ramadan is a time of fasting, sacrifice and self-reflection. We honor your commitment to your faith and will vigorously protect your right to practice it without fear of intimidation.”

President Barack Obama in his statement said: Here in the United States, we are grateful to the many Muslim American organizations, individuals, and businesses that are devoted to creating opportunity for all by working to reduce income inequality and poverty, not only through their charitable efforts, but also through their initiatives to empower students, workers and families with the education, skills and health care they deserve.”