A community Iftar in Rochdale brought together residents, civic leaders and local organisations to mark the holy month of Ramadan and share the breaking of the fast.
The gathering took place at Unity House on 6 March and welcomed people from a wide range of ethnic, cultural and faith backgrounds.
The event was organised by KYP to encourage unity and meaningful connections across the borough. People of all faiths and none attended, sharing food and conversation while reflecting on values of empathy, compassion and generosity.
KYP Chief Executive Zulf Ahmed opened the evening by welcoming guests and thanking those who attended.
Local residents joined representatives from organisations across the borough including Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Boroughwide Housing, Action Together, Rochdale and District Mind, Petrus, Greater Manchester Police, Springhill Hospice, RWWA, Rochdale AUGB Ukrainian Club, Nigerian Community Association, For Generations to Come, Army of Kindness, Your Trust, Living Well and Aspire 2 Aspire.
Guests of honour included the Mayor of Rochdale Councillor Janet Emsley and Rochdale Member of Parliament Paul Waugh. Both reflected on the importance of shared values, community spirit and collective responsibility.
Imam Irfan Chishti from the Rochdale Council of Mosques spoke about the meaning of Ramadan and the importance of unity, tolerance and resilience. He noted that Ramadan and Lent began at the same time this year and described it as a moment of connection between faith communities.
He said “Ramadan reminds us that in times of hardship, our greatest strengths are patience, compassion and unity.”
The Adhan call to prayer was recited by a member of KYP staff before guests broke the fast with dates and water. The evening meal included samosas, pakoras, chicken curry and pilau rice.
Organisers said the event forms part of ongoing work to strengthen community cohesion and build positive relationships across different groups in Rochdale.
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