Breaking Bread, Breaking Barriers: COSARAF’s Interfaith Iftars with Show Racism the Red Card

The news

COSARAF Partners with Show Racism the Red Card Wales for a Series of Community Interfaith Iftars

The COSARAF Charitable Foundation is proud to partner with Show Racism the Red Card Wales to deliver a series of interfaith iftar events at iconic sports venues across Cardiff, Newport, and Swansea. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to fostering understanding, unity, and inclusivity in communities across the UK.

Leading this initiative, our Director, Tashmina Hoque, had the privilege of attending the first two events—one at the Principality Stadium, home of the Welsh Rugby Union, where the pitch was beautifully illuminated, and another at Rodney Parade with Dragons RFC, where guests experienced the extraordinary moment of praying pitchside. These gatherings welcomed a diverse mix of attendees, including members of the Muslim community, people of other faiths, and those with no faith, all eager to learn about Islam, share iftar, and engage in meaningful discussions on tackling racism and celebrating diversity.

The events also saw the participation of local leaders and key community figures, including MS John Griffiths, representatives from Gwent Police, Chief Constable Mark Hobrough, and Jalal Goni from the Bengal Dragons Foundation. Their presence reinforced the importance of such interactions in strengthening community cohesion and fostering dialogue on the challenges and opportunities of building an inclusive society.

A special thanks goes to Dean Pymble and his team for delivering such impactful events, as well as to rugby star Ashton Hewitt for his candid and inspiring speech on tackling racism. We are also grateful to all our hosts and partners who made these interfaith iftars a success.

Through this partnership, COSARAF continues to promote its mission of supporting strong and inclusive communities. These iftar events are not just about breaking fast together; they are about breaking barriers, encouraging open dialogue, and deepening mutual understanding.

 

As someone who grew up in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, in the 1980s, our Director Tashmina Hoque reflected on how Ramadan was once a quiet, family-centered practice. To now see so many people eager to learn about the traditions of Ramadan and join in the iftar experience is a testament to the power of shared experiences in bringing communities closer together.

We look forward to seeing this partnership grow, with even more opportunities to engage, educate, and unite diverse communities through meaningful initiatives. Here’s to many more impactful and inspiring events ahead!