Muslims Being 'Targeted With Violence': Biden Recalls Plight Of Uyghurs, Rohingyas At Eid Reception

Biden stated that making the US more equitable and more inclusive for Muslim Americans is an essential part of the enduring work to form a more perfect union.

New Delhi: US President Joe Biden on Monday said that Muslims are being targeted with violence around the world as he asserted that Muslims make America stronger every single day even as they still face challenges and threats in the society they live in.

Biden made the statement at a White House reception to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, news agency PTI reported. The US President has appointed the first Muslim to serve as Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom.

"It's especially important because today, around the world, we're seeing so many Muslims being targeted with violence. No one, no one should discriminate against oppressed or be oppressed for their religious beliefs," he said to applause from the select gathering at the White House, as quoted by PTI.

Arooj Aftab, a Pakistani vocalist and composer, was one of the speakers at the event held in Washington, DC. It also had First Lady Jill Biden and Dr Talib M. Shareef, Imam of Masjid Muhammad, known as The Nation's Mosque' in attendance.

Speaking to the gathering, Biden said: "Today, we also remember all those who are not able to celebrate this holy day, including Uyghurs and Rohingyas and all those who are facing famine, violence, conflict, and disease. And honour the signs of hope and progress toward the world we want to see, including the ceasefire, which allowed the people in Yemen to honour Ramadan and celebrate Eid in peace for the first time in six years."

"But at the same time, we have to acknowledge that an awful lot of work remains to be done abroad and here at home. Muslims make our nation stronger every single day, even as they still face real challenges and threats in our society, including targeted violence and Islamophobia that exists," he added.

Biden stated that making the US more equitable and more inclusive for Muslim Americans is an essential part of the enduring work to form a more perfect union.

"We're the only nation in all the history of the world that's been organised not based on religion, race, ethnicity, geography, but on an idea. Think about that. An idea," he mentioned.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris also wished citizens on the occasion Eid-ul-Fitr.

"Doug and I send our warmest wishes to all who are celebrating Eid al-Fitr. Muslims in the US and around the world celebrate after a month of deep reflection, helping those in need, and connecting with community. From our family to yours, Eid Mubarak!" she wrote in a tweet.