Fact Sheet WHO: The Philadelphia metropolitan area is home to more than 200,000 Muslims*, one of the highest populations of Muslims in the United States. These numbers equate to: Approximately 20% of Philadelphia public school students in grades (K - 12) are Muslim. 5 2 mosques are located in the City of Philadelphia. WHAT: Muslims observe and celebrate two religious holidays Eid ul Fitr and Eid u l Adha , and desire inclusion as legal holidays on the City and school district calendars; Eid u l - Fitr , or the Feast of Breaking the Fast, is an important religious holida y celebrated by Muslim s worldwide. It marks the end of Ramada n , the Islami c holy month of fa s tin g . The communal aspects begin with large gatherings in the morning to give charity for the poor, followed by prayer, a sermon and well wishes. Day long celebrations include gifts for the children, feasts of food from all over the world, and visits to the homes of family and friends. Eid ul - Adha , or the Feast of Sacrifice, is the major religious holiday celebrated by almost two billion Muslims around the globe. It coincides with the end of the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, the largest and most universal religious gathering on earth. During the day Muslims reflect on Prophet Abraham, who was so obedient to God that he was willing to sacrifice his beloved son Ishmael. Communal activities include large gatherings for prayer and a sermon, and the giving of food and charity to the less fortunate neighbors in the community. WHY: Muslim children, adults, families and the culture of their community should be fully recognized and included in the life of Philadelphia public schools and public services. HOW: The legal observance of the two Eids as holidays on the City of Philadelphia’s school and municipal calendars. WHEN: 20 15 legal adoption of Eids as Holidays; 2016 implementation * Pew May 2015