Mayor Reed welcomed Muslims and interfaith guests to the dinner and shared a message of diversity and inclusion.  “We know first-hand the kind of social progress we can achieve when we work together, work through our differences and transcend the primitive barriers of segregation and division.” He shared that embracing our diversity is not only the right thing to do but can lead to personal gain mentioning “We’ve seen the kind of business success and economic opportunity we can achieve when we ensure that Atlanta is a city for everyone.”

 

The Mayor noted that Atlanta is home to over 100,000 Muslims and 80 mosques, and recognized the contributions made by Muslims throughout Atlanta and the United States. He said “I believe it is essential that Atlantans of all religious backgrounds get to know their Muslim neighbors. The divisive times we live in call on us to seek a deeper understanding of all of our residents. Only by broadening our inter-faith relationships, can we come to a greater collective appreciation of our rich and multi-faceted culture.” Mayor Reed has spoken out against intolerance and promotes integrating the city’s diverse foreign-born communities. 

 

The Iftar dinner was attended by Shia and Sunni Muslims, Christians, Jews, city officials including former Attorney General Sam Olens (now President of Kennesaw University).