Ramadan arrives this year at a critical time for Arabs and Muslims, both around the world and in the United States. Muslims are suffering from divisions and violence in the Middle East, while Muslim Americans are facing a frightening wave of hatred and bigotry.

The holy month is a festive occasion. We can use Ramadan to rise above our wounds and turn it into a celebration of our identity as Muslim and Arab Americans.

This month is not merely a time when we refrain from eating and drinking during the day. According to religious and cultural traditions, it is a time of love, giving and unity. We should embody these values to reflect the true nature of our community. We should decorate our homes, front yards and storefronts to express our pride of who we are and show our fellow Americans the joy of our culture.

During Ramadan, Dearborn, the capital of Arab America, is known for its sleepless nights. The city’s streets, bakeries, restaurants and hookah lounges remain crowded throughout the night. It is an exciting phenomenon that demonstrates the vibrancy of our community. 

We invite non Arabs and non Muslims to frequent Dearborn’s iftars and suhoors and witness our love for life. We also ask our merchants, city government, chambers of commerce and community organizations to promote Dearborn’s Ramadan atmosphere. Sharing our glee could have ample economic and social benefits for our community. 

During times of religious mourning, the community’s mosques and homes are quick to raise black flags; and it is their unquestionable First Amendment right to do so. Now, during this joyous month, let us display our happiness and raise Ramadan’s symbols of joy and giving throughout our community. 

In the words of American writer William Arthur Ward, “a warm smile is the universal language of kindness.” When we celebrate Ramadan, we smile collectively as a community and show that we are kind Americans, contrary to the hateful stereotypes.

However, while sharing our celebration, we should be gracious and considerate. Our non Muslims neighbors do not have to wake up with us for Suhoor. Let us be aware of our surroundings and respect the rights of others who do not observe Ramadan or wake up for a meal before dawn. 

Being loud in our backyards in the early hours of the morning is annoying to Muslims and non Muslims alike. Riding on loud bikes through the neighborhood at night is obnoxious during Ramadan and throughout the year. Honking car horns on residential streets is unacceptable. 

We are a scrutinized community and the actions of each of us reflect on all of us.

We wish our readers and all Muslims a Ramadan Mubarak. We hope this holy month brings joy, peace and healing to all the people of the world.