Celebrating Ramadan in Medellín: The Story of a Small Yet Diverse Muslim Community

A Personal Journey

Medellín, Colombia – In the bustling city of Medellín, 14-year-old Ziauddin Yahya Iqbal Sandoval, affectionately known as Zia, embodies the quiet conviction that comes with observing Ramadan. Born and raised in Colombia, where the majority of the population practices Christianity—63% identify as Catholic—Zia represents a unique facet of the country’s cultural tapestry.

Renowned as a minor but vibrant Muslim community, Colombia is home to between 85,000 and 100,000 Muslims, accounting for less than 0.2% of the entire population. This small group, however, encompasses a rich diversity of backgrounds and experiences, reflecting centuries of migration and conversion to Islam.

Celebrating Ramadan Amidst Diversity

On the eve of Ramadan, communities in cities like Bogotá and Medellín prepared for the holy month with enthusiasm and devotion. In Medellín’s Belen district, gold-embellished wishes for “Ramadan Karim” (generous Ramadan) adorned the modest mosque, setting the tone for solemn observance.

Inside, as shoes lined the wall, a small group of men from various backgrounds stood shoulder to shoulder in prayer, demonstrating unity amid diversity. Mu’tasem Abdo, an Egyptian imam who moved to Medellín four years ago, highlighted that while most attendees are Colombians, they also welcome people from Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Pakistan, and beyond.

Nostalgia and Community Building

Despite the small size of Colombia’s Muslim population, the spirit of Ramadan is celebrated with zeal. However, newcomers to the Colombian Muslim community often experience a longing for the grandeur of Ramadan as celebrated in their home countries.

Imam Abdo articulated this sentiment, noting that many Muslims from larger Islamic nations may initially feel isolated. A sense of nostalgia hangs in the air as they navigate their faith amidst a predominantly Catholic society.

Pakistani migrant Rana Arif Mohammad, who ventured to Colombia 23 years ago hoping to explore Latin America, also felt this isolation. Establishing his own restaurant in Medellín, he fondly recalls the early days when he encountered just a handful of other Muslims. “Twenty-three years ago, I met just four to five Muslims—mostly from Lebanon and Turkey,” he shared.

Growth of the Muslim Community

Over the years, however, the visibility of Muslims in Colombia has increased significantly. For instance, the election of the first Muslim mayor in the border city of Maicao in 2020 highlighted a shift in representation. “Today, Medellín boasts five mosques,” Mohammad noted, an encouraging development that fosters a growing sense of community.

The Muslim population in Latin America underwent a notable surge following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in the early 20th century, with significant migration patterns shaping its demographics. In Colombia, one of the most prominent influxes followed the Lebanese civil war in the 1970s, leading to a mix of Muslims and Christians seeking refuge.

A Melting Pot of Cultures

In Bogotá, Sheikh Ahmad Qurtubi celebrates the diverse demographics of his congregation at the Qurtubi Islamic Centre. He joyfully explained how their jamaat (congregation) includes worshippers from around 10 to 15 different countries, enriching the communal experience. The spirit of Ramadan highlights the unity that can arise from such diversity, as shared prayers and traditions weave a narrative of connection.

Although there’s no official data on the origins of Colombia’s Muslim population, Sheikh Qurtubi observed that conversions to Islam are on the rise, with about 100 to 200 attendees at his centre being recent converts. This diversity, while bringing vibrancy, also presents challenges in creating a cohesive community identity.

Embracing Differences Through Celebration

Despite these challenges, Ramadan provides an avenue for celebration and cohesion. Each night, families take turns preparing Iftar meals—symbolizing the breaking of the fast—bringing together various cultural foods. “One night we might have Moroccan cuisine, the next might feature Pakistani dishes, or even Colombian food,” explained Sheikh Qurtubi.

These community gatherings foster understanding and respect among different cultural backgrounds. The act of sharing meals becomes a celebration not only of faith but also of the diverse heritages present within the Colombian Muslim community.

As Zia and his peers navigate their identities within a predominantly Christian society, the celebration of Ramadan serves as a reminder of both their shared faith and the richness of their cultural differences. The future of Ramadan in Colombia seems promising, as understanding blooms amid the diverse fabric of its Muslim community.