WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama has praised the contributions of American Muslims at a dinner to celebrate the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Obama joined Cabinet secretaries, ambassadors and members of Congress to pay tribute to what he called "a great religion and its commitment to justice and progress."
The president also welcomed American Muslim community leaders to the event in the State Dining Room.
Obama said Islam is "part of America." He said the American Muslim community is diverse, like the broader citizenry of the United States.
Ramadan, a monthlong period of prayer, reflection and sunrise-to-sunset fasts, began Aug. 22 in most of the Islamic world.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is hosting a dinner celebrating the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Obama was also to highlight the contributions of American Muslims at the Tuesday evening event in the State Dining Room.
The guest list included Cabinet secretaries, members of Congress, ambassadors from Islamic nations and Muslim community leaders.
Ramadan, a monthlong period of prayer, reflection and sunrise-to-sunset fasts, began Aug. 22 in most of the Islamic world.
White House dinners marking the holy month are nothing new.
During his eight years in office, former President George W. Bush held an iftar, the meal that breaks the daily fast during Ramadan.
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