Sen. Ingwersen attends annual Biddeford community iftar dinner

AUGUSTA – On Saturday, March 30, Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel, joined local community members in Biddeford at the annual Ramadan iftar event at Southern Maine Health Care in Biddeford.

“It was an honor to join our Muslim neighbors in breaking their fast,” said Sen. Ingwersen. “Muslims have had a long history in Biddeford and have always been contributing members to the state of Maine. I’m proud to see this celebration of togetherness and service in our community. I’m wishing all Muslims in Maine and around the world an early Eid Mubarak!”

The event was hosted by Eisha Khan and Biddeford City Councilor Liam LaFountain. The event was in collaboration with MaineHealth. The theme for the evening was celebrating Muslim women for Women’s History Month. It included a panel of Rep. Mana Abdi, D-Lewiston, Adilah Muhammad, and Amran Osman, who shared how their faith has guided their careers in public service and leadership. The iftar dinner was catered by Jaffa Mediterranean Grill in South Portland.

Ramadan is the holy month for those of the Muslim faith in which Muslims engage in fasting during the daylight hours. Iftar is the meal Muslims have once the sun has set to break their fast. It is traditionally a communal meal with items such as dates and water.

From left: Christine Ingwersen, Sen. Henry Ingwersen, and former Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau at Southern Maine Health Care for the Biddeford Community Iftar

Biddeford City Councilor Liam Lafountain and Sen. Henry Ingwersen