Muslims around the globe celebrated the end of Ramadan this week. And for one mosque in Sioux Falls, this year’s celebration is very different from a year ago.
Ramadan is an important religious holiday. Muslims follow the Islamic calendar which means Ramadan starts at a different time every year. Last year, it was in late April at the beginning of the pandemic.
It’s a holy month of fasting. No food or drink from dawn till dusk.
The end of Ramadan, also known as Eid-al-fitr, or Eid, is normally a big celebration with friends, family and a lot of food.
Ismael Mulamba is a volunteer at the Islamic Center in Sioux Falls. He says last year was difficult.
“We didn't know like what to do. How should we do it? So everybody was scrambling”
Mulamba says the celebration was limited – just ten people with masks and social distancing. But this year is different.
“It's more like going back to normal, but not just there yet. Because we still have masks on. We still have social distance. No hugs. You know, it's not going to be the same. But this year we have invited the whole community to attend.
He’s grateful to gather as a community, despite the restrictions.
“It makes me feel like I'm the luckiest person on earth. I get to celebrate Eid with my community that I'm supposed to celebrate with. So I'm happy I didn't get sick. It's just a moment whereby we all reflect and say, hey, last year our fellow brothers and sisters have passed away because of this thing. I have survived, you know, and now I get to attend Eid as a community. It's such a blessing.”
And Mulamba says everyone enjoys the food.
“Everybody brings a different dish to the table. And man, it is one of the best things…I've never experienced in my life before.”
The last day of Ramadan was Wednesday, but Eid celebrations can last for several days.