Multifaith crowd of 500 share Ramadan iftar to support Molenbeek for Brussels 2030

More than 500 people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds came together to share the Ramadan iftar at Saint John the Baptist Church in Molenbeek-Saint-Jean on Sunday evening.

The event during Lent marked the first weekend of spring, as well as the fast-breaking meal enjoyed by Muslims after sunset during the Ramadan period.

Organised by Molenbeek For Brussels 2030 as part of its bid for the title of European Capital of Culture, the initiative was a collaboration with local associations and residents of the municipality.

It aimed to highlight the cohesion that is deeply rooted in the multicultural community’s identity.  

“These values of solidarity and generosity, reflected in the spirit of Sadaka found in various cultures, are at the core of this candidacy. This is what we want to showcase to Europe,” said Fatima Zibouh and Jan Goossens, co-leaders of Molenbeek For Brussels 2030.

Molenbeek-Saint-Jean, along with Namur and Leuven were selected for the final of Belgium’s bid for the 2030 European Capital of Culture title in October 2024.

The three towns or cities were chosen from a total six candidates by a jury of international experts. 

The winner is due to be announced at the end of 2025 following a visit by the international jury to each of the selected cities and a further presentation by each candidate.

Photo: ©Veerle Vercauteren/MB2030.