US President Biden Wishes a Happy Eid al-Adha to Muslims

President of the United States (US) Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, on Tuesday (27/6), wished Muslims a happy Eid al-Adha and conveyed their best wishes to all those who celebrate Eid al-Adha.

In a statement released by the White House, he noted that Eid al-Adha "commemorates the story of Abraham and his family's supreme allegiance to God."

Biden said leaders of the Muslim community would gather to celebrate Eid al-Adha at the White House for the first time this year, hosted by US Vice President Kamala Harris and his wife Jill Biden.

"In the United States, we are proud to be home to millions of Muslims who enrich our nation's cultural fabric and contribute to shared prosperity," he said in the statement.

Pointing to Muslim Americans' contributions to the country on multiple fronts, Biden said their "presence reinforces our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and religious freedom."

In his message, which emphasizes compassion, empathy, and mutual respect, he also refers to the rituals of the Hajj, which are performed during Eid al-Adha.

"The Hajj brings together people from every continent and corner of the world who renounce their worldly possessions and don the simple white ihram garment in the spirit of equality.

This idea is similar to the idea on which our nation was built—that we are all created equal and have the right to be alive, free, and pursuing happiness," he said.

"May the spirit of Eid al-Adha bring joy, peace, and unity to your hearts and homes.

We look forward to welcoming home our American Muslim pilgrims who have been awarded the title of 'Al-Hajj'.

To them and Muslims around the world, may your holiday be full of joy and peace. Happy Eid al-Adha!" said Biden.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also congratulated Muslims on Eid al-Adha and expressed his best wishes for Muslims who perform the Hajj.

"I wish Muslims both at home and around the world a blessed Eid al-Adha.

For those celebrating, Eid al-Adha is a powerful reminder of the communal obligation to look after one another," he said.