VICTORIA – New Democrat leader John Horgan and multiculturalism critic Bruce Ralston issued the following statement on the annual occasion of Ramadan on behalf of the B.C. New Democrats:

As Muslims start to observe Ramadan in British Columbia, throughout Canada and around the world, New Democrats send greetings and good wishes to the Islamic community.

The holy month of Ramadan is a special time of spiritual contemplation where Muslims affirm and reinforce their ties to their faith.

We are fortunate to have an active, diverse and vibrant Muslim community in our province, contributing to British Columbia’s economic growth and cultural diversity.

This is a community that is noted for its generosity, compassion and inclusiveness. Muslims have made invaluable contributions to Canadian society.

As Muslims of all cultures come together for prayer and fasting, it is also a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.

On behalf of the B.C. New Democrats we wish everyone a reflective and peaceful Ramadan.

Ramadan Mubarak.