Ramadan tent in downtown Regina celebrates charity, unity

People in Regina were able to enjoy something not every community in the world is able or willing to accomplish.

Under a large tent in downtown's Victoria Park, dozens of people from all different backgrounds and beliefs shared a meal together.

The Ramadan tent Iftar dinners are being organized by the Intercultural Dialogue Institute Regina. Iftar is a meal that is eaten at the end of a day's fast during Ramadan.

Organizers said Ramadan represents "a time of fasting charity, prayer, and unity."

Ayhan Ozturk, chair of the Intercultural Dialogue Institute Regina, said he wants to share Ramadan with everyone, regardless of their religion or their background.

"First Nation people, some church members, Turkish community, Muslim community, Jewish community, even the non-believer come here," he said. "Everybody come to our tent and share a meal with us."

The idea of togetherness, regardless of religious beliefs or backgrounds, is especially important in the wake of the mass shooting in Orlando, Fla. Ozturk said such "terrorist activity" goes against his religion and is even more upsetting during a time where people like himself are sharing generosity during the Holy Month.

"Someone has acted against my religion. I don't know why he got this permission to act on my religion. But we condemn every terrorist activity."

The Ramadan tent will be set up and serving dinner in Victoria Park every night this week until June 16.