Reflections Of Ramadan In Essex County: Eid Stirs Mixed Feelings

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Eid has arrived in Essex County.

As Muslim residents throughout the county celebrate the 2024 Eid al-Fitr holiday this week – marking an end to Ramadan – greetings of “Eid Mubarak” are also mixed with feelings of sorrow over the Israel-Palestine war, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives, including family members of New Jersey residents.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset every day. The fasting comes to an end with Eid al-Fitr, or Festival of the Breaking of the Fast – one of Islam’s most important holidays. During this time, Muslims take part in special prayers, greet one another with formal embraces and greetings such as “Eid Mubarak,” or “have a blessed Eid.” The occasion is also celebrated by exchanging gifts with family and friends over special meals featuring traditional dishes. See Related: 5 Things To Know About Ramadan

Many school districts across the state have started giving students off class for the holiday (although Eid is taking place during spring break in some districts this year). In Essex County, they include East Orange, Irvington, Livingston, Millburn, Montclair, Newark and South Orange-Maplewood, according to a map from CAIR New Jersey.

For some North Jersey residents, the Eid holiday brought cheer and joy. But for others, it roused feelings of sorrow and worry for relatives and other civilians whose lives may be in danger overseas.

In nearby Paterson, Muslims leaders and community members gathered to mourn the rising death toll and share stories of loss, NJ Spotlight News reported. “This has been one of the most difficult Ramadans of my life,” one attendee said.

“No Eid Without Gaza Having Eid!” the Palestinian American Community Center wrote on Tuesday, sharing a video from the rally. The group also released a Palestine Advocacy Guide for this year’s Ramadan holiday.

New Jersey has the highest percentage of Muslim residents in the United States.

Earlier this year, the state celebrated its first-ever Muslim Heritage Month, which “promotes awareness and appreciation of the many contributions of New Jersey's Muslim community.” Read More: NJ Celebrates Its First 'Muslim Heritage Month'

The Essex County Board of County Commissioners also held its first-ever Muslim Heritage Month celebration earlier this year, spotlighting four local community leaders – and mourning for a recently slain imam. Read More: Essex County Honors Muslim Leaders, Slain Imam For Heritage Month

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