Donald Trump’s 2018 Ramadan Statement Is Much Better Than Last Year's

Ramadan is a time for gatherings and unity, and in the US, the White House Iftar has been a long-standing tradition that started in 1805 under Thomas Jefferson.

Last year, Trump broke from tradition by canceling the Iftar and giving a Ramadan speech that weirdly focused on America's stance to "defeat terrorists and their perverted ideology."

Not on topic, if you ask me. And at a time when anti-Muslim sentiments are at its highest, a White House-hosted Ramadan Iftar would give a clear message of support to the 3.45 million Muslims living in the US.

Well, word is that it might be back on. At least, according to those involved with interfaith diplomacy in DC, who believe the White House is in talks with the State Department about hosting an Iftar in June. However, when asked, the Deputy White House Press Secretary, Lindsay Walters, reportedly said that they have "no updates at this time," The Washington Post reported.

Whether that is fact or rumor, remains to be seen. But the Ramadan statement this year is definitely a step in the right direction. 2018's speech is a complete turnaround from 2017, in tone and manner. This time Trump said: "Ramadan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life. In the United States, we are all blessed to live under a Constitution that fosters religious liberty and respects religious practice. Our Constitution ensures Muslims can observe Ramadan in accordance with the dictates of conscience and unimpeded by government …

"As so many people unite to celebrate Ramadan, Melania and I join in the hope for a blessed month. Ramadan Mubarak."

Now that's more like it! Read the whole thing below:

With the rising of tonight's moon, I send my greetings and best wishes to all Muslims observing Ramadan in the United States and around the world.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Quran to the prophet Muhammad through fellowship and prayer. Many observe this holy time by fasting, performing acts of charity, reciting prayers, and reading the Quran.

Ramadan is a time of self-reflection intended to deepen one's spiritual growth and renew a sense of appreciation for the many blessings God provides. In this spirit of thanksgiving and reflection, those observing Ramadan can strengthen our communities, help those in need, and serve as good examples for how to live a holy life.

Ramadan reminds us of the richness Muslims add to the religious tapestry of American life. In the United States, we are all blessed to live under a Constitution that fosters religious liberty and respects religious practice. Our Constitution ensures Muslims can observe Ramadan in accordance with the dictates of conscience and unimpeded by government. By doing so, the Constitution also furnishes varied opportunities for all Americans to deepen their understanding of the human soul.

As so many people unite to celebrate Ramadan, Melania and I join in the hope for a blessed month. Ramadan Mubarak.