“Eid al-Adha, the festival of sacrifice, is one of the most important days of the year for Muslims. On this day, Muslims across Alberta come together to pray, share festive meals, provide food to those in need, give thanks for the blessings in life, and reinforce the principles of sacrifice, devotion to faith, compassion, love and generosity.

“Eid al-Adha also coincides with the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. For the second year in a row, many Muslims across the world were unable to participate in the pilgrimage due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I know this is a great sacrifice for the global Muslim community, and as we move into the post-pandemic world, I join you all in hoping this sacred journey can safely resume next year.

“Happy Eid to all Muslims in Alberta who are celebrating this holy day.

“Eid Mubarak.”