Cultures unite for Muslim tradition

PEOPLE of all different faiths gathered in Manchester to share in a Muslim tradition.

A community Iftar was held to share the Muslim custom of breaking the fast during the Holy month of Ramadan.

Three community groups, all working to promote the positives of British Muslims in society – MEND (Muslim Engagement and Development), Share Ramadan and Myriad – set up the evening meal in the Sheridan Suite on Oldham Road.

MEND’s Siema Iqbal, who organised the event, said: “The aim was to break down barriers and misconceptions and share the experience, bringing different cultures and communities together.

“Iftar meant we could share our faith and educate people about Ramadan and the work done by our organisations,” added the 37-year-old, who works as a GP in Crumpsall.

More than 400 people from different faiths attended the event, which was named Share Iftar, including community and faith groups. “The number of people from other faiths or no faiths outnumbered the number of Muslims, which was amazing,” said Siema.

The leftover food from the Iftar feast was also donated to the homeless.