A Muslim boy at prayers marking Eid al-Fitr in Jakarta, Indonesia, 2015.

The Arab American News wishes you a Ramadan Mubarak.

The Holy Month arrives at a time when Arab and Muslim nations are going through tumultuous times, as our local communities face an unprecedented wave of bigotry and hatred. 

Meanwhile, terrorist psychopaths and thugs continue to murder Muslims and non-Muslims alike in the name of Islam, blaming their despicable actions on a religion with 1.6 billion followers that has spread from Indonesia to Spain.

Despite the hardships we are enduring as Arabs and Muslims, we still enjoy the protection of the First Amendment in the United States — freedom of speech and religion. 

As the challenges mount, the community has to rise to the level of responsibility to defend its rights. Arab Americans have duties and responsibilities. They need to engage the broader society and increase cultural and political involvement in their surrounding. 

From attending city council meetings, to voting, to using social media to dispel myths about Arab and Muslims, being politically active is more critical than ever. 

This Ramadan, let us embody the values of the holy month by spreading a culture of giving, love and tolerance. 

This is not only a month for religious rituals; it is a month for societal healing, for forgiveness, for altruism, for admitting mistakes and building bridges. 

This sacred time demonstrates the liveliness of the Arab American community. It is an opportunity for local Arabs and Muslims to celebrate their identity.

“A warm smile is the universal language of kindness,” says American author WIlliam Arthur Ward. 

Let us smile above the hardships and the heartache. 

We hope this month brings peace and justice to all the people of the world.