LANSING — With the start of Ramadan this week, Governor Whitmer shared Ramadan greetings with the entire Muslim community.

“Peace be upon you,” she said. “I want to extend my greetings for a Ramadan Mubarak to all Michiganders who observe this important and holy month.”

In her statement, Whitmer went on to explain the meaning of Ramadan.

“Ramadan is the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed,” she said. “It’s a month of fasting and withholding from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. It’s a time when Muslims reflect on the wisdom and guidance that comes with faith and the responsibility that we have as human beings to community and to one another.”

Whitmer also said there is a lot to be learned from fasting.

“Through fasting, Muslims acquire valuable lessons, including self discipline, empathy and charity,” she said. “Ramadan is a beautiful message for all people, not just Muslims. This year has been especially difficult for us all. We experienced a deadly pandemic, injustices against people of color and threats to our democracy, and values like empathy, self discipline and charity is exactly what’s needed to heal our communities. As the crescent moon is sighted and Ramadan begins, my thoughts and best wishes will be with all Muslims, especially my fellow Muslim Michiganders. I wish you a happy, fulfilling and generous month. Ramadan Kareem.”