Sens. Duson, Brenner attend community iftar in Portland mosque

AUGUSTA – On Friday, March 22, Sen. Jill Duson, D-Portland, and Sen. Stacy Brenner, D-Scarborough, joined local leaders and community members at the annual Ramadan iftar event at the Maine Muslim Community Center in Portland. Ramadan is the holy month for those of the Muslim faith where 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.

“It is a privilege to learn so much about what Ramadan means to everyone,” said Sen. Duson. “I’ve had the opportunity to work with the Muslim community over many years when I served on the Portland City Council, and it has been my honor to serve on the Council with Councilor Ali. I want to express respect for these Mainers’ faith traditions and for inviting us to join you all for this traditional breaking of the fast.”

“I’m grateful for this opportunity to break bread with our fellow neighbors,” said Sen. Brenner. “Inter-faith events like this highlight the strength of our collective spirit. It’s imperative not only to have Muslims as our neighbors, but as leaders in our community.”

The Maine Muslim Community Center was founded in Portland in 2007. It is a mosque for Muslims to gather for their daily prayers and foster spiritual connection. The Maine Muslim Community Center offers other services such as: social services for new refugees and asylum seekers, funeral services for Muslims, fundraising efforts for charity, and hosting Eid celebrations twice a year. It is the first free-standing mosque in Southern Maine.

From left: Sen. Jill Duson and Sen. Stacy Brenner at the Maine Muslim Community Center

From left: Rep. Deqa Dhalac D-South Portland, Sen. Jill Duson and Sen. Stacy Brenner