Use the power of Ramadan to help others

Statement by Mark Holland – MP, Ajax and Parliamentary Secretary for Democratic Institutions, June 3 2016.

Mr. Speaker, next week there will be hundreds of thousands of Canadians who will be celebrating Ramadan. In my own riding, there will be many thousands, and of course across the world, hundreds of millions. I want to take this opportunity to wish all those celebrating Ramadan, Ramadan Mubarak.

Last year, I had the opportunity to fast the entire period of Ramadan. It is something I am going to do again in support of the charity called Give 30. People take the money that they save fasting every day and give it to those who are more needy, particularly food banks.

When I fasted, it was an incredible experience to feel what it was like to be hungry. Of course, I got relief at the end of the day, but for many children, unfortunately, in Canada and around the world, that relief never comes. They have to make it through the day and try to learn and prepare for their future without the aid of food.

This charity gives an opportunity to reflect upon that and use the power of Ramadan to help others.

VIDEO: MARK HOLLAND’S STATEMENT