As Muslims in Barbados and around the world begin the observance of Ramadan, Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has issued a statement marking the occasion. In her message, she highlighted the theme of Connection, stressing the importance of strengthening community ties and fostering mutual respect among all Barbadians.
Below is the full statement from Prime Minister Mottley:
This year, it is with a sense of neighbourliness and community that I greet my brothers and sisters of the Muslim faith as you begin your celebration of the Festival of Ramadan. I do so, conscious of the theme of this year’s celebrations — Connection.
While in Barbados we have been fortunate to have been able to maintain stable and respectful relations between our various ethnic and cultural demographics over the years, it ought now to be clear to all in our nation that merely existing together is not enough.
The gradual loss of some of the key aspects of the values that have distinguished us as Bajans, regardless of our colour, ethnicity or religion, now requires that we wholeheartedly embrace the principles of active citizenship — and we can only do that effectively if we are willing to strengthen the connections among ourselves.
Your mission of Bringing Communities Together is premised on the understanding that true connection — whether rooted in shared experiences, values or faith — can, with mutual respect, build bridges of solidarity and foster a compassionate world where all can coexist in harmony.
As members of the Muslim community know, this is not just about how one practices one’s religion, but it must encompass all aspects of our relationship with all of humanity, in the process encouraging bonds of kindness, understanding and compassion for all, regardless of their background.
That’s why, even as I greet you, I say to all Barbadians that the Ramadan message of self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice and empathy for those who are less fortunate is not just applicable to Muslims, but to all of us who wish to see the cultivation of a more caring and just society. We must look within to be genuinely able to see beyond ourselves to make that “Connection”.
I wish you a most successful Ramadan 2025.
