For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 7, 2001
Eid Al-Adha, 2001
Warm greetings to Muslims across the United States as you celebrate the
Eid al-Adha holiday and join in spirit with the millions gathered in
Mecca
to uphold the traditions of one of your most sacred feasts.
America
was built on a strong spiritual foundation, and the celebration
of
faith is central to our lives. As you celebrate the annual
Hajj, the fifth
pillar
of Islam, you honor the great sacrifice and devotion of Abraham
as
recognized by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. By educating
others
about
your religious traditions, you enrich the lives of others in your local
communities.
The
variety of nations and cultures represented by those who travel to
Mecca
each
year, and the varied ways in which Muslims contribute to American life
across
the United States, are powerful reminders that ethnic and racial
differences
need not divide us when we share common values and
purposes. By
building
strong foundations of mutual respect, we can achieve peace and
reconciliation
in our world.
Laura
joins me in sending best wishes for a joyous holiday celebration.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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