The Bachar Houli Foundation (BHF) will find new and innovative ways to celebrate Ramadan as the result of a State Government partnership announced yesterday.

The partnership will see the BHF develop a video campaign that will share the Ramadan experience with the broader Victorian community. Ramadan commenced yesterday and runs through until 23 May.

“One of the ambitions of the Foundation is to promote social inclusion through understanding and this partnership will enable to us to do that more effectively. We are extremely grateful for the important investment the State Government has made in this program,” BHF Founder Bachar Houli said.

“We will be producing a series of videos to explain what Ramadan means to the Islamic community and how it influences the way we live our life for the next month. I think we will produce something important that celebrates Ramadan and contributes positively to social harmony.”

Richmond chief executive Brendon Gale said the role of the Bachar Houli Foundation is as significant as ever given the current public health challenges.

“Bachar and his Foundation play an important role in connecting people and communities and the importance of that is highlighted in the current environment,” Gale said. “This partnership with the State Government will further enhance that significant work and we thank them for their support.”

Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ros Spence announced the campaign, saying the month of Ramadan will look very different for the Islamic community because of Coronavirus. 

“A lot of Victorians have made sacrifices throughout this pandemic – and I know many in the Muslim community will be hurting at not being able to attend nightly prayers or get together with family,” Minister Spence said.