CAIRO – US President Barack Obama has issued his annual message to American Muslims and Muslims around the world to congratulate them on the start of the holy fasting month of Ramadan, saying he stands firmly with them against dividing voices.

“As Muslim Americans celebrate the holy month, I am reminded that we are one American family,” he said in a statement issued by the White House.

“I stand firmly with Muslim American communities in rejection of the voices that seek to divide us or limit our religious freedoms or civil rights.

“I stand committed to safeguarding the civil rights of all Americans no matter their religion or appearance. I stand in celebration of our common humanity and dedication to peace and justice for all.”

Ramadan is the holiest month in Islamic calendar.

In Ramadan, adult Muslims, save the sick and those traveling, abstain from food, drink, smoking and sex between dawn and sunset.

They dedicate their time during the holy month to be closer to Allah through prayers, self-restraint and good deeds.

Muslims in North America started fasting on Monday, June 6, on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan.

The religious community make up 1% of America’s 322 million population, according to Pew Research center research in 2010.

Muslim Help

In his Ramadan message, Obama stressed US Muslims’ efforts to help the less fortunate all through the year and especially on Ramadan.

“For many, this month is an opportunity to focus on reflection and spiritual growth, forgiveness, patience and resilience, compassion for those less fortunate, and unity across communities,” he said in the written statement.

“We must continue working together to alleviate the suffering of these individuals. This sacred time reminds us of our common obligations to uphold the dignity of every human being.

“Here in the United States, we are blessed with Muslim communities as diverse as our nation itself. There are those whose heritage can be traced back to the very beginning of our nation, as well as those who have only just arrived,” he said, noting that their numbers include “doctors, lawyers, artists, teachers, scientists, community organizers, public servants, and military members.”

He also hinted at Donald Trump’s calls for temporarily banning Muslims from entering the United States.

“We will continue to welcome immigrants and refugees into our nation, including those who are Muslim,” he said.

He also repeated his annual invitation to American Muslims to share Iftar at the White House, a tradition going over the past years.

“As I have done throughout my presidency, I look forward to opening the doors of the White House to Muslim Americans during this special occasion – this year for an `Eid celebration marking the end of Ramadan,” Obama noted.

“I can think of no better way to mark my Administration’s last celebration of Ramadan as President than to honor the contributions of Muslims in America and across the world for Eid. Ramadan Kareem.”