BUFFALO, N.Y. — The holy month of Ramadan just started for people of the Islamic faith across the globe.
2 On Your Side spoke with the Founding President of the Muslim Public Affairs Council - Western New York on Monday afternoon about Ramadan and how people here are observing it as part of their faith.
"It's a very strict fast that really disciplines you and gets you closer to those who may not have access to food as freely as we do here in the United States," said Khalid Qazi, Founding President of the Muslim Public Affairs Council - WNY.
Through April 9, Muslims observing Ramadan must fast from about 90 minutes before sunrise until sunset every day. But the fasting is just part of it.
Khalid Qazi says that this year, Ramadan is taking on special meaning as people reflect on the war in Gaza.
"One really starts wondering how people, for example, in Gaza today are surviving when they don't have access to any kind of food for days on, and here we are, you know, with a plethora of every kind of food that we need is available," said Khalid Qazi.
Ramadan also requires Muslims to give to charity. And, there's a congregational prayer done every night around 9 o'clock.
"That generally will take about 90 minutes, so you are home around 11 o'clock, and then by the time you, you know, get ready to sleep and get ready for the next morning, you get up around 4:30 or so to get ready for the next fast, so it's a very busy hectic day," said Khalid Qazi.
He says fasting is not something small children are required to do, but sometimes they try.
"There is this pleasant tussle going on where kids manage to get up in the morning and have a small meal and then parents, you know, they go along with it and the next day they tell them around noontime, okay, you know, it's time for you to break the fast," said Khalid Qazi.
Every year, several faith-based groups come together for "The Tent of Abraham." It is a big event where food is collected for charity, and you don't need to belong to one of the groups hosting it. This year, it is being held March 20.