12 September 2016•Update: 12 September 2016
By Michael Hernandez
WASHINGTON
President Barack Obama extended his "warmest wishes" to Muslims worldwide on Monday as they celebrate the Eid al-Adha holiday.
Obama said in a statement that the holiday is "a celebration of the ways faith can transcend any differences or boundaries and unite us under the banners of fellowship and love."
Muslims around the world celebrate the Feast of Sacrifice holiday by sacrificing permissible animals, usually cows, goats or sheep, to commemorate Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son when ordered to do so by God.
Obama said this year the holiday is also a reminder of the millions of refugees across the planet "who are spending this sacred holiday separated from their families, unsure of their future, but still hoping for a brighter tomorrow.
"As a nation, we remain committed to welcoming the stranger with empathy and an open heart—from the refugee who flees war-torn lands to the immigrant who leaves home in search of a better life," he said.
"May the spirits of community togetherness, principled service, and compassionate generosity bring good tidings to those celebrating Eid al-Adha. From our family to yours, Eid Mubarak," Obama concluded.
His statement is in sharp contrast to comments made by Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump who has routinely scapegoated Muslim-Americans, and called for a full halt on Muslim entry to the U.S.
Trump finds himself in a tight contest with Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton who is battling health issues stemming from pneumonia.
The two will square off Sept. 26 during the first presidential debate.
