By THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
OFFICE OF COUNCIL MEMBER PETER F. VALLONE JR.
For Immediate Release November 14, 2012
Michael Pantelidis
718-274-4500
On October 26th, Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. attended a congregational prayer to commemorate Eid Ul Adha, or Festival of Sacrifice, organized by the Astoria Islamic Center.
Eid Ul Adha, one of the most important Muslim holidays, is celebrated in honor of the willingness of the prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of submission to God and his son’s acceptance of the sacrifice – before God provided Ibrahim with a ram to sacrifice instead.
Prior to the prayer, Vallone discussed the similarities between the Muslim and Christian religions.
“Muslims and Christians share many similar beliefs that bring us together, and sacrifice is a cornerstone of both our faiths,” said Council Member Vallone. “I am honored to be here to celebrate with all of you on this very holy day.”
Vallone also co-sponsored a resolution in 2009 calling on the New York City Department of Education to allow both Eid ul-Fitr and Eid ul-Adha to be observed as public school holidays.