LANCASHAIRE FIRE SERVICE MEMBERS TAKE PART IN FASTING TO SUPPORT MUSLIM COLLEAGUES
Members of the Lancashire Fire and Rescue service have been fasting for one day alongside their Muslim colleagues to show their support during Ramadan.
Staff members from across the county have been spending one day fasting along with their Muslim colleagues as part of the “I’m not a Muslim but I will fast for one day” community cohesion initiative.
Several members of the team from local fire stations such as Preston and Blackburn have spent one day without eating or drinking to support their Muslim colleagues.
First introduced by One Voice Blackburn, it asks people to fast in solidarity with Muslims who are fasting for the month of Ramadan.
The initiative is now in its seventh year, with members of the public, officials from local organisations from the public and private sector taking part to show solidarity and learn more about the religion of Islam.
Faxi Assi, Community Fire Safety Advisor in Eastern Area, is organising the Service’s participation in the initiative and said: “I want to thank my colleagues who have already taken up the challenge of fasting with me for a day during the month of Ramadan.
“It goes without saying that their support is invaluable, and I am truly honoured to have them joining me in this initiative.”
Area Manager for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, Mark Hutton said: “This is the first time that I have fasted for a day during Ramadan, and I find it gave me the opportunity to appreciate what we sometimes take for granted in life whilst giving me a greater understanding of Islam.
“Collectively, as a service, we are proud to support this initiative and show support to our Muslim friends and colleagues.
“We pride ourselves on supporting our neighbours and communities and we wish Muslims across Lancashire a safe and happy Ramadan.”
Find out more about the community initiative here.
SOURCE: https://www.lep.co.uk/news/people/lancashire-fire-service-members-take-part-in-fasting-to-support-muslim-colleagues-3207671