While figuring out our Eid plans with my mother a few weeks ago, I realized I might have to prepare myself to face more ignorance than usual. I found myself asking, “Why this year of all years?” A few days later while scrolling through Facebook I found a post that read, “Can we just re-schedule Eid so Trump doesn’t go off on us?”
It’s absurd to associate Islam with any terrorism because the rationale behind their attacks has and still is insanity. Religion is simply a guise that distracts us from seeing the real problem. But, it’s even more absurd to accept fear and hate and let that obstruct an entire religious ceremony.
I can promise you that not a single true Muslim will be celebrating 9/11. My family will be having a potluck with our family friends, which we have done for every single Eid-ul-Adha since I can remember. We already sent money to Pakistan for the qurbani (sacrificed animal). In undeveloped countries like Pakistan, the poor only have the opportunity to eat meat on Eid ul Adha. They walk the streets as families open their doors and offer them one third of their household’s qurbani, as per the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad.
There will be some parts of the world celebrating Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, on September 11. Others will celebrate on September 12. Depending on one’s location, the sighting of the new moon at the beginning of the lunar month will vary. In locations where the new moon is spotted on September 1, Eid ul Adha will be celebrated 10 days later as Eid occurs on the 10th day of the Dhul-Hijjah, the lunar month of Hajj (pilgrimage).
It’s easy to respond to the controversial date of this year’s Eid celebration with indifference. No, Muslims don’t owe anyone an explanation of how the lunar calendar works, but such explanations are small steps to fighting ignorance. We’re living in a political climate in which ignorance is breeding hate and hate is costing lives each and every day. Just a few weeks ago Imam Akonjee and his associate were fatally shot outside of a mosque in Queens. Perhaps a few bothersome and awkward conversations could foster curiosity and acceptance of diversity. We’re running out of options, and I’d rather explain the lunar calendar and halal over and over than let someone like Trump define my religion and culture for me.
