Despite a longstanding tradition of U.S. presidents issuing greetings to Muslims around the world on the occasion of Eid, President Donald Trump has once again failed to do so—this time for the second consecutive Eid. The holy festival of Eid al-Adha was celebrated globally, including in the United States, on Friday, June 6. Yet the president offered no statement or greeting to mark the occasion.
While the White House hosted a lavish iftar and dinner during the last Ramadan, Trump did not issue any message for Eid al-Fitr either. It has been customary for U.S. presidents to release statements during both Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, acknowledging the religious significance of these festivals. But this year has seen a departure from that norm. As of yet, the White House press secretary has also not issued any official remarks.
Earlier, on March 27, during the holy night of Shab-e-Qadr in Ramadan, President Trump organized a grand iftar and evening banquet at the White House, acknowledging the sacredness and importance of the month. Welcoming guests in a luxuriously decorated East Room of the White House, he said, “Ramadan Mubarak.” He added, “In November, the Muslim community stood with us. As long as I am president, I will stand with you.” The event was attended by prominent Muslim-American leaders, government officials, and international diplomats.
During his first term in office, Trump issued his first Eid greeting on May 23, 2020, on the eve of Eid al-Fitr, which was celebrated on May 24 in the U.S. In a statement released by his office, he said that as Muslims around the world celebrated Eid al-Fitr, “We hope they find comfort and strength through prayer and devotion.”
He acknowledged that during the previous weeks and months, as the world battled the coronavirus pandemic, people had leaned on their faith, families, and friends for guidance through this unprecedented time.
“This festival marks the end of the month-long observance of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and observe other traditional practices,” Trump said. “Now more than ever, we recognize that faith brings peace, hope, and love into our lives and unites us. We extend our heartfelt wishes for a blessed and joyful Eid al-Fitr.”