Freetown, Sierra Leone – In honor of Ramadan, Ambassador David Reimer led a team from the United States Embassy in distributing food packets at Friday prayers at Jamiul Atiq mosque.  Joined by Chief Imam of the Municipality of Freetown and head of the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone, Sheikh Abu Bakarr Conteh and Chief Imam of Jamiul Atiq Sheikh Alhassan Karim, staff from the United States Embassy distributed packets of rice, tomatoes, and other staples  to pay tribute to Sierra Leone’s remarkable tradition of religious tolerance. 

“In this month, families and communities come together, sharing food and celebrating the values Muslims hold dear – peace, tolerance and charity,” stated Ambassador Reimer. “As noted by President Biden, Muslim Americans have been a part of the United States since its founding and are part of the fabric of America.  On behalf of the people of the United States, I wish all Muslims, here in Salone, in the United States, and around the world, Ramadan Kareem.”

Ambassador Reimer also met with Sheikh Conteh to discuss the work of the Inter-Religious Council in promoting peace and stability in the country.  The Council was formed in 1997 at the offices of the United States Mission to Sierra Leone with the support of a delegation from the World Council for Peace.  Since that time, the Inter-Religious Council has worked to promote religious harmony and understanding in Sierra Leone, helping promote the democratic process and the growth of civil society. 

“The Inter-Religious Council has helped to strengthen the Sierra Leonean tradition of religious tolerance,” stated Ambassador Reimer.  “The peaceful co-existence and mutual respect shown by all faiths in Sierra Leone should serve as a model for the world.”