Alberta legislature commemorates Eid al-Adha

Leaders from several local Muslim organizations came together in prayer to celebrate Eid al-Adha at the Alberta legislature on Tuesday.

Government officials and community members gathered at the Alberta legislature Tuesday to celebrate Eid al-Adha.

Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is the second major Islamic holiday alongside Eid al-Fitr.

While Eid al-Adha is typically celebrated between May 27 and 30, it has become custom for the Alberta legislature to hold its ceremony a week after.

“There’s been a tradition that’s been established at this legislature for the past 30,” said Masood Peracha, former chair of the Edmonton Council of Muslim Communities. “It’s an opportunity for the Muslim community to be able to do a joint celebration with the larger Edmonton community.”

Peracha said Eid al-Adha goes back to the Abrahamic tradition where Prophet Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son according to the will of God.

“It coincides with the completion of the pilgrimage of Muslims around the world in the city of Mecca,” explained Peracha.

Justice minister Mickey Amery said it was a privilege to recognize one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar.

“Eid al-Adha commemorates the values of devotion, sacrifice and compassion,” said the minister at Tuesday’s event. “It’s a time when families and friends come together to celebrate, to share meals, to support one in need, to check on your neighbours and friends, and to strengthen the bonds that connect our community as one.”

According to the province, there are more than 200,000 people of Muslim faith living in Alberta.