Muslim communities across North America are set to welcome the holy month of Ramadan 1446 A.H. on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This announcement has been confirmed by the Moon-Sighting Committee of the Council of Shia Muslim Scholars of North America, which stated, "Saturday, March 1st, 2025, will be the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan, 1446 A.H. for the entire region of North America." The determination follows verified sightings of the crescent moon by the naked eye at sunset on February 28, 2025, from various locations across the continent.
Ramadan, recognized for its significance as the month of fasting and reflection, commences with nightly Taraweeh prayers, which will begin the evening prior, as noted by the Council of Imams of Ottawa-Gatineau. They shared, "Ramadan, the month of the Quran and fasting, is a unique month in our calendar..." highlighting the need for community engagement during these holy days.
This year, the atmosphere surrounding Ramadan carries added weight, particularly concerning the challenges facing many global communities. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged this sentiment, stating, "The sacred month...comes at a particularly challenging time, as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to unfolded." Trudeau underscored the importance of solidarity and support for those facing injustice and adversity worldwide.
On the day when Ramadan begins, families and friends will gather to break their fast with the evening meal known as iftar. Trudeau noted this longstanding tradition: "Over the coming weeks, family and friends will gather in homes and mosques to pray. After fasting from dawn till sunset, they will share a traditional evening meal called iftar. For those practicing, this is a sacred time to reflect and celebrate.”
With the number of Muslims in Canada being estimated at approximately 1.8 million, the Prime Minister took this occasion to acknowledge their contributions to the country. "From coast to coast to coast, they enrich our communities and help make Canada more prosperous, diverse, and inclusive," he said, extending wishes for all practicing Muslims: "On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my wishes for a blessed and peaceful Ramadan to all those practicing."
During Ramadan, the act of giving—as seen through Sadaqatul Fitr—is encouraged within Muslim communities. Each person is encouraged to contribute at least $10 to support those less fortunate. Community leaders are urging early payments so those who depend on these donations can benefit right away, especially during this blessed month.
This Ramadan, as Muslim communities come together to pray and reflect, there is also collective emphasis on humanity's hardships. The Council of Imams of Ottawa-Gatineau called on community members to hold those suffering from conflicts, natural disasters, and injustice close to their hearts and prayers. Their message emphasized the importance of generosity and helping those impacted by crises.
The Council stated: “This year the month of Ramadan is all the more important for us to make duas and show our generosity as humanity is helplessly witnessing unprecedented loss of life, force displacements, and extreme human suffering... Let us encourage one another in earning the pleasure of Allah (SWT) through the acts of piety, righteousness, generosity and service to humanity.”
Community gatherings, both at mosques and within neighborhoods, aim to strengthen ties among families and friends during Ramadan. Whether participating in congregational prayers or community initiatives, the significance of unity takes center stage during this holy month.
With various councils and mosques across the nation making preparations for these gatherings, the spirit of Ramadan is projected to bring warmth and communal support among Canadian Muslims as they observe the holy month. They invite all to join and partake, drawing on the blessings inherent within the month.
Lastly, as the sun sets on February 28, the focus shifts to the crescent moon illuminating the night sky, marking the official start of Ramadan 1446 A.H. Muslims across Canada will join their counterparts worldwide, reflecting on their faith and obligations, with hopes for acceptance of their prayers and actions during this spiritually significant month.
Whether it is through fasting or charity, the essence of Ramadan inspires all to act with kindness and compassion.