By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
As the holy month of Ramadan continues, Muslims in Chatham-Kent and around the world are renewing their spiritual commitment through fasting, prayer, charity and reflection.
Local families and organizations are marking the month with special events that strengthen community ties and promote understanding.
Giving back is a central part of Ramadan, and many in Chatham-Kent are embracing this message. Families gather to reflect, pray and fast, while also finding ways to help those in need.
For Kubra Khanum, a Tilbury-area resident, Ramadan is about building connections with loved ones and neighbours.
“During Ramadan, I’m very busy, as we share meals with family, friends and neighbours. Almost every night, we have guests joining us from Windsor, Chatham and Ridgetown for Iftar,” Khanum said. “This month, I’m busy preparing food both in the morning and afternoon.”
Since there is no mosque in Tilbury, Khanum’s husband and children drive to Chatham to attend prayers at the mosque after Iftar dinner.
Khanum says her family enjoys cooking a variety of traditional dishes, including savoury snacks such as pakoras and samosas, along with sweet treats.
Throughout Chatham-Kent, mosques and cultural groups are hosting daily and weekend Iftar dinners, welcoming anyone who wishes to break their fast. The Chatham Islamic Centre and other local organizations have become gathering spaces filled with warmth and hospitality during Ramadan.
Nasir Karim, a Comber resident originally from Afghanistan and a regular at the Chatham mosque, says he is grateful for the opportunity to observe his faith in Canada.
“It’s a blessing to be able to practise our faith freely and to have the support of our community here,” Karim said.
The Chatham Islamic Centre organizes Iftar meals featuring a variety of international dishes, providing an opportunity for attendees to connect, share and reflect. These meals are part of broader Ramadan activities, including prayers and community programs that promote unity and spiritual growth.
Chatham resident Qadir Chishti encourages people of all backgrounds to join Iftar dinners and learn more about Islam.
“These dinners are open to everyone,” Chishti said. “We always love to invite our friends and neighbours to join us for Iftar and share a meal. I think there’s no place on Earth like Canada.”
Chishti says it’s a great way to learn from one another and build understanding.
To help raise awareness and foster understanding, the Municipality of Chatham-Kent has released a video for the community.
The video highlights ways local businesses and organizations can support employees, colleagues and customers who are observing Ramadan. It also offers insights into how the month is honoured through self-discipline, generosity and spiritual reflection.
Residents can learn more about faith communities in Chatham-Kent by visiting LivingCK.ca. Information about significant cultural and religious observances is available through the municipal Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice team at letstalkchatham-kent.ca/deij.
Observed during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan lasts about 30 days. From dawn until sunset, Muslims fast by refraining from eating and drinking. Exceptions are made for children, travellers, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals who are ill.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection and charitable giving. Across Chatham-Kent, local groups are organizing food drives and assembling Ramadan food baskets to support families in need.
As Ramadan continues, Chatham-Kent’s Muslim community is demonstrating the values of generosity, unity and faith — offering a reminder of the importance of caring for one another and fostering community spirit during this sacred month.
