On June 13, 2018, over 200 members of the Howard County community gathered at Dar Al-Taqwa for an interfaith iftar. During Maghrib, masjid visitors could be found observing the salah and, for some, even noticing the similarities with their own form of prayer. At this iftar, local politicians were given a chance to consider how Islam directly affects the community at large, in addition to, discussing their plans in office with Howard County Muslims.
In attendance were representatives from Governor Larry Hogan’s office, as well as, the Howard County Sheriff’s office. Candidates for County Executive, State’s Attorney, Delegate, Sheriff, and Governor, were present.
When asked what steps they planned to take to solidify the bond in the community, Rich Gibson, who is running for Howard County State’s Attorney, said, “Engaging in action that will make the community feel safer and know they will be respected.”
“The duty of the Sheriff’s office is to work for and protect the people.” John Francis McMahon, a candidate for Sheriff, made his displeasure with the Sheriff’s office clear. While he had previously run for Sheriff unsuccessfully, he is running again because he is determined to stand for his constituents. According to McMahon, “the primary job is to take the complaints of the people because the Sheriff only works for the people.”
Dan Medinger, who is running for Maryland House of Delegates, District 9B from Ellicott City, he spoke on his decision to run and worry of whether the district has “a sustainable future.” In regards to the Muslim community of Howard County, he described himself as “a gateway representative.” He recognizes the lack of Muslims, and general diversity, of organizing boards in the county, despite the significant number of residents.
“I know that there is no other place in this world, is my life story possible. I know that my life is possible because of what Maryland gave to me.” While guests broke fast, Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, candidate for Governor, recounted her story as a Maryland resident, as well as past experiences. Her past political works including being Senior Advisor to Hillary Clinton and John Kerry at the State Department, then becoming Michelle Obama’s policy director. Many of those in attendance voiced how impressed they were with her resume and their plans to vote for her.
While discussing his plans for office, Calvin Ball, who is running for Howard County Executive, said, “Howard County can be a place where we embrace diversity and not just tolerate it- where we fight against things like Islamophobia and racism and where we are an example of how everyone can become their best self.” And in regards to the iftar, “it was good to be here as a beacon of light and unity for others.”
During a spare moment with the Howard County Muslim Council President-elect, Ainy Haider-Shah, she spoke about how pleased she was with the event turnout and its success. On the number of women running for offices this election season, she enthused how exciting it is to see these women on the ballot and how important it is for young people to be witness to their successes.
Despite the focus on politics at this Iftar, it was ultimately meant to be an interfaith iftar. One attendee, Deborah Morowitz, shared how glad she was, as a person of the Jewish faith, to attend with her daughter. “It was fascinating sitting in the back of the prayer room and watching all of the similarities between Muslims and Jews.”
Several candidates emphasized the importance of going out to participate in early voting, June 14th-21st, or on June 26th for general election day.
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