The County of Bergen hosted its Annual Grand Iftar and Crescent Lighting in partnership with the Eid Committee of New Jersey on March 9 at Bergen Community College in Paramus. The event marked the beginning of Ramadan, a significant month in the Islamic faith, and brought together elected officials, religious leaders, and community members.
Ramadan is considered the holiest month for Muslims, observed through fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, reflection, and charitable giving. The iftar meal serves as a time for families and communities to gather and break their fast while expressing gratitude.
New Jersey District 37 Assemblywoman Shama Haider delivered welcome remarks at the event. Attendees also enjoyed a nasheed performance by Little Stars of the Muslim Community of Dumont. Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco III addressed those present, saying, “During this sacred time, you feed the hungry, care for the poor, and extend kindness to those around you. It is a month where strangers are no longer strangers. These practices, which guide the very spirit of Islam, make our County a more compassionate place every single day.” Tedesco continued: “Let us all live our lives in the way that Ramadan encourages us to- spreading light, charity, and kindness everywhere we go. May the light of this crescent spread across our community and bring lasting peace throughout the world.”
Reverend Mason Jenkins of The Valley Hospital led interfaith prayers for peace during the ceremony. The evening began with lighting of the crescent in Bergen Community College’s gymnasium and included Maghrib prayer led by Imam Sadiq Tahir of Minhaj-Ul-Quran in Hackensack.
Reflecting on the evening’s significance, Commissioner Rafael Marte said: “Our Muslim community is a cornerstone of Bergen County, and we are grateful for all they contribute. We were proud to host them for this celebration of Ramadan as we broke bread together and commemorated this time of reflection, unity, and gratitude.”
Food and refreshments were donated by several local organizations including Bergen County Islamic Center; Cultural Society of Bergen County; Eid Committee of New Jersey; El-Zahra Islamic Center in Midland Park; Minhaj-Ul-Quran in Hackensack; and Nida-Ul Islam in Teaneck.
