Governor Proclaims Ramadan 2024

WHEREAS, Islam is the second largest religion in the world, with 1.9 billion devotees worldwide and about 3.5 million in the United States, as well as the fastest-growing demographic in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Muslim-Americans are one of the most racially diverse groups in the U.S., comprising African Americans, Asians, Arabs, and Caucasians; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina is home to over 130,000 Muslims and continuously growing; and

WHEREAS, Islamic traditions and values provide balance and peace to many of life's problems and often serve as an inspiration and reflection for the millions of individuals who look to the teachings of Islam for guidance; and

WHEREAS, Ramadan, the 9^th month in the Islamic calendar, is celebrated annually by millions of Muslims throughout the United States and over a billion Muslims across the world; and

WHEREAS, Ramadan is celebrated by Muslims as a month of fasting, community service, and reflection; and

WHEREAS, during the month of Ramadan, the Muslim community across North Carolina, and across our great nation, will collectively celebrate the revelation of the Quran and its teachings; and

WHEREAS, on behalf of the State of North Carolina, it is with immense pride and honor that I recognize the contributions of all Muslim Americans;

NOW, THEREFORE, 1, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March 1 1 — April 9, 2024, as "RAMADAN" in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.

Roy Cooper, Governor