The 4th Annual California Iftar Dinner was held this past Monday with the participation of State Senators and Assembly members, representatives from the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department, federal law enforcement officials, and academics.
Before the evening call to prayer, the keynote speaker, Senator Dave Cortese, stated in his remarks:
“For the past several years, during the holy month of Ramadan—lasting from February 17 to March 19—I have had the honor and privilege of joining the Pacifica Institute for iftar as they break their fast.
As a Catholic, I deeply appreciate and commend Pacifica Institute’s commitment to interfaith and intercultural dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding—bringing together people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs to promote peace and collaboration within our community.
Their work extends beyond Silicon Valley and includes Sacramento, where they have organized iftar programs every Ramadan for the past four years.”
Following him, Senator Melissa Hurtado expressed that she attends the iftar every year and emphasized that this meaningful tradition should continue. Senator Ben Allen noted that he previously served as Chair of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus and stressed the importance of this iftar program and the broader work carried out by Pacifica. Senator Choi highlighted the importance of encouraging youth participation in such programs. Assemblymember Sade stated that Ramadan is not only about fasting, but also about bringing people together.
Dr. Chui Tsang, former President of Santa Monica College, remarked that the core values of the Hizmet movement focus on bringing people together, and that this mission has been successfully realized through education, dialogue, and social responsibility initiatives—something she has personally witnessed.
Following a ney (reed flute) performance, guests continued to share their reflections and thoughts with one another after the iftar.
