On April 1, Muslims in Canada and around the world marked the start of the holy month of Ramadan. The annual observance of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It lasts from one sighting of the crescent moon to the next (from April 2 to May 1 in 2022).

Through Ramadan, Muslims will fast from sunrise to sunset, and come together spiritually by taking part in nightly prayers and breaking their fast with dates and iftar—a shared meal. During this time, Muslims will also renew their commitments to better themselves and their communities. This is done through acts of charity, volunteerism, continued empathy, and zakat—generosity to those who need it most. 

Ramadan is also an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the incredible contributions of Muslim Canadians to our country. Muslim Canadians are a part of what makes Canada what it is today. However, they still face unacceptable hate crimes and discrimination.

CHF BC is taking action to tackle hate and discrimination through our strategic priority of ‘belonging.’ We aim to inspire housing co-ops to be communities that promote and embody equitable access, opportunity, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone. Our efforts include:

• Working with housing co-ops to identify and work to remove barriers to equity and inclusion;
• Modeling best practices to promote equity and inclusion and to increase diversity among CHF BC directors, staff, workshop leaders, contractors, and consultants; and,
• Reviewing and refreshing our education program, management services and development practices to reflect this strategic priority.

On behalf of the CHF BC group of social enterprises, we extend our best wishes for a blessed and peaceful time of reflection to everyone observing this sacred month.

 Ramadan Mubarak!