What began last year as a nationwide premiere is now becoming a tradition: On Wednesday evening, Mayor and Head of Diversity Nargess Eskandari-Grünberg and City Councillor Hilime Arslaner ceremoniously switched on the Ramadan lighting in Große Bockenheimer Straße, Freßgass'. Crescent moons, stars and artistically designed Fanoos lanterns illuminate the popular boulevard and send out a visible signal of diversity and social cohesion. The illuminated lettering "Happy Ramadan" is also intended to underline this spirit.
"The Ramadan lighting is an expression of a city society that not only accepts diversity, but actively lives it and makes it visible", explained Eskandari-Grünberg. The consistently positive reactions over the past year in particular have shown how important such symbols are for social coexistence. "Frankfurt is taking on a pioneering role here and showing that Muslim life is a natural part of this city."
In her speech, Hilime Arslaner also emphasized the importance of symbols of togetherness in a time of social challenges: "Our society often appears divided, and some political forces are driving this division further. But what unites us should outweigh what divides us." Ramadan stands for reflection and a sense of community and should put the question at the center: "How can we live together in peace?"
Latifa Kaddouri from the Frankfurt Coordination Council of Mosque Communities emphasized that rejection often arises from fear of the unknown. Ramadan offers a valuable opportunity to build bridges and promote intercultural dialog. Professor Bekim Agai, Director of the Academy for Islam in Society and Science, emphasized that it was about " showing that Muslims are a natural part of this city".
Around 200 guests watched the moment when Eskandari-Grünberg and Arslaner activated the festive lighting with a buzzer. The assembled crowd celebrated the symbolic act with applause and cheering shouts. To conclude, both politicians wished all Frankfurt Muslims a blessed Ramadan.
