MSP: It’s a privilege to attend Ramadan event
An Iftar was hosted at Hamilton Islamic Centre on Friday night by the Scottish Police Muslim Association (SPMA).
Christina Mckelvie MSP was among those who attended the event, a special meal eaten by Muslims during Ramadan, which aimed to enhance Police Scotland’s engagement with people in the community in line with the force’s annual policing plan for 2022/23.
Other guests present at the annual event included Assistant Chief Constable David Duncan, Chief Inspector Graeme Mclaughlin – who is Area Commander for Hamilton and Larkhall – and local community police officers who cover Hamilton.
During the event, the Imam at Hamilton Islamic Centre explained the significance of the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadhan, which began on Thursday, March 23. Muslims around the globe fast between sunrise and sunset throughout this time, a period of 29 or 30 days.
During Ramadan, mosques are filled with worshippers attending the five daily prayers based on the movement of the sun.
Muslims gather in the mosque at nighttime to perform a special congregational prayer, called Taraweeh. This is not obligatory but highly recommended.
Most Muslims will come to the mosque to open their fast just after sunset, and this mealtime is known as the Iftar. The meal eaten before sunrise is known as Suhur.
The attending Assistant Chief Constable from Police Scotland headquarters at Tulliallan spoke about the Policing Together initiative which recognises officers and staff come from different backgrounds and different religions, beliefs and experiences, but have shared values of integrity, fairness, respect, and a commitment to upholding human rights.
Ms Mckelvie, MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, said: “It was a privilege to attend Hamilton Islamic Centre’s annual Iftar, which was organised with the SPMA.
“I have the utmost respect for Muslims, Islam, and all religions and religious people, at all times, but especially during the period of Ramadan where resilience truly is the status quo.
“It was brilliant to engage with constituents, to spend time with a prominent faith community, and I was humbled and touched by my interactions between police officers and members of the community which attended.
“I was also privileged to be able to make a short speech. I spoke of my commitment to maintaining my constituency’s progressive, diverse and respectful aura, and I was pleased to pay tribute to the work of the SPMA.
“In my constituency, we have more that unites us than divides us. Even though there are many challenges and stresses amongst my constituents, there is no doubt that we come together with mutual admiration and respect, and this is something I am proud to be a part of.
“This is why I am also proud of the new Hate Crime Strategy which was published last week by the Scottish Government. The strategy sets out how Scotland can become a more cohesive society where everyone feels they belong.
“I am proud of the Scottish Government for introducing this body of work which will tackle any barriers to maintaining a progressive, and equal 21st century nation.
“Finally, it was a real treat to attend an event with such significance within the Muslim community.
“The welcome, warmth and hospitality I experienced was a fundamentally inspiring experience, and I look forward to continuing and fostering this important relationship.”
Even though there are many challenges and stresses we come together with mutual admiration and respect