Statement by President Joe Biden on the occasion of Eid al-Adha
THE WHITE HOUSE
JUNE 27, 2023
Jill and I send our best wishes to everyone celebrating Eid al-Adha, Islam’s “great holiday”. The traditions of Eid recall the story of Abraham and his family remaining faithful to God and recall the importance of selflessness, charity, and service to those less fortunate.
This year, for the first time, the White House is celebrating Eid al-Adha with a gathering of Muslim community leaders hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff. In the United States, we are proud to be home to millions of Muslims who enrich the cultural fabric of our nation and contribute to our common prosperity. We appreciate the myriad contributions that American Muslims make to our society, from education and healthcare to the economy and public service. Your presence strengthens our commitment to diversity, inclusion and religious freedom.
As we gather with loved ones and engage in worship, charity, and community service on this sacred occasion, we renew our commitment to the values that unite us: compassion, empathy, and mutual respect. These principles are at the core of both Islam and the American spirit.
As Muslims around the world celebrate Eid, more than a million pilgrims peacefully perform their religious duties, the Hajj, at Mount Arafa and Mecca in Saudi Arabia – including thousands of American Muslims – and here in America we join the work to renew our commitment to the pursuit of peace and a better world for all. Hajj brings together people from all continents and parts of the world who leave behind their worldly possessions and wear plain white clothing Ihram dress in the spirit of equality. This idea is similar to that on which our nation is built – that we are all created equal and entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
May the spirit of Eid Al-Adha bring joy, peace and unity to your hearts and homes. We look forward to welcoming home our American Muslim pilgrims who have received the title of Al-Hajj. We wish you and Muslims around the world happy and peaceful holidays. Eid Mubarak!
