Mr Tony Burke (Watson, Australian Labor Party, Manager of Opposition Business (House)) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This time next week, Muslim communities in Australia and around the world will begin a month-long fast during the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, is prescribed as a month of fasting in the Koran and commences at the sighting of the crescent moon. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection for Muslims. Prayers, charity and recitation of the Koran become a central part of worship during the month. It enhances faith and strengthens the bonds of family relationships. At the sounding of the adhan, the call to prayer, Muslims break their fast with three dates before eating with family, friends and community. The ritual of a day-long fast is ended with extended prayers at the mosque.

In my electorate, the streets come alive, particularly in Lakemba after dusk, when the evening prayers are completed. Families and communities gather in Haldon Street in Lakemba. People come from all around Sydney late at night and any time of night to see packed streets where people are observing fasting, acts of charity and prayer. I would encourage my fellow colleagues here in the House of Representatives to accept the invitation one night during the month of Ramadan to drop into Lakemba. A member from the other place dropped into Lakemba only a few weeks ago for all the wrong reasons. I'd like those opposite and my own colleagues to take the opportunity to turn up and receive the generosity of spirit which the community brings to all.