Ramadan begins with prayer in Times Square, solidarity for Gaza

Reflecting New York’s multicultural spirit, Times Square became a venue for Ramadan prayers, where attendees also voiced support for people in Gaza, creating a unique blend of faith and activism

Over a hundred Muslim worshippers convened in Times Square Sunday to welcome the holy month of Ramadan.

Many also displayed Palestinian flags, signaling their empathy for people in Gaza amid recent conflicts.

Under the glow of Times Square’s iconic LED billboards, attendees performed Taraweeh, the special night prayers of Ramadan. Salman al-Hanafy, a 20-year-old forklift operator from Cairo, expressed his awe at the diversity of the Muslim community.

“It’s good to come here as Muslims. I saw Muslims from everywhere,” he said while describing the event’s inclusive atmosphere.

Despite cold, windy weather, the prayer meeting attracted over 100 people. The event featured the chanting of Nasheeds and children reciting verses from the Quran.

These acts of devotion added a spiritual layer to the urban backdrop.

A young IT student, Ahmad Yasar emphasized the gathering’s broader purpose. “Communal prayer meetings (are) important to raise awareness and show people what’s going on around the world,” he stated, underlining the event’s global consciousness, especially concerning Gaza.

Organizers projected prayers and their English translations onto a white sheet, integrating spiritual messages into the cityscape. This innovative approach connected religious practice with New York’s dynamic nature.

The Palestinian flag was visible throughout, with one speaker wearing it on his hat and a young boy in an electric wheelchair displaying it.

This symbolized the community’s concern for the ongoing situation in Gaza, reflecting the sentiments expressed by Sohail Qureshi, the event’s organizer. Speaking to NY1, Qureshi said: “This Ramadan is hurting us a little more because of our brothers and sisters in Palestine.”

This is the second year such a gathering has been held in Times Square.

This event continues to be a significant expression of faith and unity for Muslims in New York, connecting local and global concerns within a sacred time.

Source: Newsroom