Iftaar dinner held at the State Department (IranVNC.com)

Good evening, and Ramadan Kareem. Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining me tonight to observe Ramadan. [Condoleezza Rice]

On Monday, September 8, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice hosted an Iftaar dinner at the State Department, breaking the days fast for a select group of Muslim poets, writers, musicians, and artists during the holy month of Ramadan.

During the ceremony, Imam Hendi, Muslim chaplain at Georgetown University, said a prayer thanking God for the evenings meal
This evening we join 1.6 billion Muslims world wide including the 7 million American Muslims in celebrating iftaar. [Imam Hendi]
Secretary Rice echoed the Imams sentiments.

Across America, Muslim families are coming together each night of Ramadan to celebrate their devotion to Islam. The many faiths and traditions to which Americans belong enrich our nation and reflect what is best about America. [Rice]

Former Secretary of State Madeline Albright hosted an annual iftaar dinner for the first time in 1998 under the Clinton administration. President Bush was the first president to host iftaar in 2000.

In her address before dinner, Rice commended the contributions of the Muslim community to the betterment of society.

The poetry that is written, the music that is composed, the history that is unearthed, the buildings that are designed all of this generously shares Islam with the American people. It reminds us of Islams culture and scientific contributions to our lives, and it challenges us both as individuals and society to be better, to be more humble and to be more charitable, to think less about ourselves and to think more about others. [Rice]

Rice pointed out that Ramadan is also a reminder to followers of all religions.

People of all faiths can appreciate Ramadans spirit, one of love for family, devotion to community, and gratitude toward God. [Rice]

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