Ramadan – it is a month-long spiritual observation that happens every year. A time in which Muslims all over the world get together to pray, fast and reflect.
In light of recent hate crimes, Muslim organizations in Winnipeg have taken steps to increase security during the holy month, which runs from May 5 – June 4.
Shahina Siddiqui, from the Islamic Social Services Association, said safety is very much on the minds of the faithful, since Ramadan began on Monday.
While people welcome the spiritual celebration, she said, the increased frequency of attendance at mosque, particularly later into the evening, raises some concern for families.
“At the back of our minds is (security), because the mosque is frequented more in Ramadan.
“Also we have late-night prayers which can go up to about midnight … a lot of families, children. And so the concern of course, always is security, considering what’s been happening.”
Siddiqui said mosques don’t have the means to hire private security, so they rely on volunteers to keep a watchful eye and be alert to anything out of the ordinary. Meetings were held in advance to help people know what kinds of things to be on the lookout for.
Siddiqui said Winnipeg police are also alerted during Ramadan.
“They will have cruisers in the area, especially at night.”
In the weeks and months leading up to the annual observation, Siddiqui said the Islamic community focuses on raising the awareness, and holds meetings to prepare their security protocols. However, she notes, no matter how much they do, there will always be concern.
“Really, how can you secure a congregation when is it is such a public thing?”
Siddiqui said Fridays prayers are a particular concern, being one of the busiest days for prayer services. People are encouraged to use ‘common sense’ rules like staying alert, notifying police if they see something out of place, or at least bring it to the attention of organizers.
“I think our major concern is children. Because our prayers are always family prayers right. Children don’t always sit where they are supposed to.”
Siddiqui said while they now make sure doors are secured and take additional steps to safeguard the community, they have not lost their devotion, or their sense of peace.
“Places of worship are places people go for peace and for sanctuary,” she said. “In spite of what has happened, and that may happen – we don’t know – we still feel that we can not stay away from our places of worship. That would be giving in to the extremists. We want to continue as we always have.”
Siddiqui said a national newsletter goes out to all mosques in Canada, including Winnipeg, of what to do during a dangerous situation, and to give everyone a sense of knowing the actions being taken to keep the holy month one of peace.