14 August 2012
Authorities in Hamburg have become the first in Germany to officially recognize Islamic holidays so Muslim employees and students can celebrate them at home.
The decision forms part of an agreement between the north German city and local Muslim groups.
Similar agreements exist with Christian and Jewish communities in the city.
Hamburg's mayor, Olaf Scholz, said Tuesday that he hopes the deal will serve as an example for other German cities.
Authorities estimate some 150,000 Muslims live the city of almost 2 million people.
Sources:
"Hamburg To Recognize Islamic Holidays For Muslim Celebrations" Huffington Post August 14, 2012
"German city to recognize Islamic holidays" News 10 August 14, 2012
"Hamburg becomes 1st German city to recognize Islamic holidays" Washington Post August 14, 2012
Authorities in Hamburg have become the first in Germany to officially recognize Islamic holidays so Muslim employees and students can celebrate them at home.
The decision forms part of an agreement between the north German city and local Muslim groups.
Similar agreements exist with Christian and Jewish communities in the city.
Hamburg's mayor, Olaf Scholz, said Tuesday that he hopes the deal will serve as an example for other German cities.
Authorities estimate some 150,000 Muslims live the city of almost 2 million people.
Sources:
"Hamburg To Recognize Islamic Holidays For Muslim Celebrations" Huffington Post August 14, 2012
"German city to recognize Islamic holidays" News 10 August 14, 2012
"Hamburg becomes 1st German city to recognize Islamic holidays" Washington Post August 14, 2012