Iftar?  Shabbat.

President Obama will be continuing the White House tradition (begun by President Bush) of hosting an Iftar dinner to break a fast day of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Like last year, the Obama White House has sought, in the American spirit, to have a religiously diverse group of guests join with American Muslim leaders and Arab diplomats in this event.

Like last year, the President has graciously invited me to attend (as well as Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren).

Unlike last year, this year's event will be held this Friday evening. Thus, with appreciation to the President for his kind invitation, I will be making kiddush at home. It's a wonderful testament to the freedom we enjoy in the United States that one can be invited to a dinner event with the President and decline on the grounds of one's own religious commitments and receive complete understanding.

By Nathan Diament  |  August 13, 2010; 9:13 AM ET Save & Share:                 
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