Houston | Special Report
A large annual Iftar dinner was held in the city of Houston, in the U.S. state of Texas, bringing together elected officials, community leaders, and members of diverse faiths to celebrate Ramadan and promote unity.
The event was attended by Houston Mayor John Whitmire, who delivered a keynote address emphasizing the vital role of the Muslim community in America’s progress and success.
Among the prominent attendees was U.S. Representative Al Green, along with federal and state lawmakers, senators, officials from various institutions, heads of community organizations, and respected members of the city.
The event began with a recitation from the Holy Qur’an by renowned Pakistani Qari and Naat reciter Qari Sadaqat Ali, who had traveled specially from Pakistan for the occasion.
The spiritual opening set the tone for an evening focused on reflection, gratitude, and community solidarity.
In his address, Mayor John Whitmire stated that he has had the honor of attending the Muslim community’s annual Iftar dinner for several years and considers himself closely connected to the community.
He said that Muslims in America play a significant role in the nation’s development and security.
“The Muslim community is an essential part of our growth and success,” Whitmire said. “We face major challenges not only in the United States but across the world. We must work together for peace and coexistence.
”Addressing concerns related to immigration enforcement, the mayor clarified that local Houston police are not involved in federal actions against undocumented immigrants.
He emphasized that under his leadership, the city continues to operate according to its local laws and priorities. “Houston is a great city built on diversity and mutual respect,” he added.
Whitmire also noted that many capable and dedicated individuals from the Muslim community serve in various sectors of his administration.
He encouraged Muslim residents to actively participate in local elections, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and voting.
“Ramadan carries a message of building a better and more peaceful society,” he said. “We should all work together for the safety, prosperity, and unity of our city.”
The event was organized under the leadership of prominent community figure Saeed Sheikh, who shared that the annual Iftar dinner tradition began 27 years ago and has grown into a significant platform for interfaith harmony and civic dialogue.
He thanked Mayor Whitmire for his continued support and expressed hope that the city administration would keep promoting cultural diversity, peace, and unity.
The annual Iftar was jointly organized by Abu Dhabi, Baku, Basra, Istanbul, and Karachi Sister City Associations, ICGH, the Ismaili Council, the Dawoodi Bohra community, and several other organizations working collaboratively to strengthen interfaith and intercultural ties in Houston.
Participants described the evening as a powerful reflection of Houston’s multicultural identity and the growing influence of the Muslim community in shaping the social and political landscape of Texas.