Kerry Sends Official U.S. Wishes for a Joyful Ramadan to all Muslims

Secretary of State John Kerry issued a statement today, June 18, wishing "all Muslims a happy and blessed Ramadan."

Ramadan occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and this year begins tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. The holiday commemorates when Muslims believe God revealed the Koran to their prophet Mohammad.

Kerry characterized the Ramadan season as one which "provides spiritual nourishment and reinforces appreciation for the universal value - and values - of humanity."

The Secretary of State also said that "Ramadan underscores the beauty in community," and "that answers the sacred call that we desire for others what we desire for ourselves."

In addition to announcing that the Department of State will once again host a Ramadan celebration, as will many U.S. embassies around the world, Kerry promised that the U.S. State Department will "remain in constant dialogue with the governments of Muslim-majority countries and with Muslim communities at home and abroad."

This is because, according to Kerry, Americans pride ourselves on our "desire to communicate clearly with others in support of the fundamental rights and dignity of every human being."