Olivia Asher is a reporter at the New Herald Tribune covering breaking news for the Digital Trends Desk. Before joining the newsroom in 2022, she covered criminal justice issues at the Orlando Plain Dealer.
Rome, GA – Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene from Georgia’s 14th Congressional District marked the beginning of Ramadan by celebrating the diverse and enduring presence of the Muslim community in her district. In a statement issued Thursday evening, Greene acknowledged the longstanding contributions of Muslims in rural Georgia and praised the growing influence of halal food on Southern soul food.
Greene’s remarks come amid a broader push for interfaith understanding and cultural exchange, particularly within communities traditionally not associated with Muslim populations. “Ramadan is a time for reflection, self-discipline, and unity,” said Greene in a public message. “In Georgia, we have seen our Muslim neighbors contribute not just to the social fabric of our state but to the heart of what makes our communities so strong – resilience, faith, and respect for one another.”
The Republican congresswoman pointed specifically to the vital role of Muslims in rural Georgia, many of whom have established businesses, led community initiatives, and supported local charities. "Muslim families in our district are doing incredible work, whether it's in education, agriculture, or small business development,” Greene noted. “Their efforts reflect the true spirit of Georgia, where everyone, regardless of background, works hard and gives back to their community."
Greene also highlighted the rising popularity of halal food, particularly in Southern cuisine, drawing connections between the Muslim culinary tradition and the deep-rooted culture of Southern soul food. “Halal food isn’t just a niche market anymore. It’s influencing the way we cook and eat, blending seamlessly with our Southern roots,” Greene observed. “From halal fried chicken to spiced lamb dishes, the flavors are melding in new ways and creating something deliciously unique for the entire community.”
Her remarks come as part of an ongoing conversation about cultural exchange and the blending of traditions in rural and suburban Georgia. The halal influence has been particularly visible in restaurants throughout the district, where chefs are incorporating spices, cooking methods, and ingredients from Muslim culinary traditions into classic Southern dishes.
Greene’s comments also underscored the importance of Ramadan as a time of spiritual renewal. "The discipline and devotion displayed by Muslims during this sacred month are an example for us all," she stated, adding that it serves as an opportunity for Georgians of all faiths to reflect on their own values of compassion, generosity, and community service.
As Ramadan begins, the message of inclusion and respect for diverse traditions echoed by Rep. Greene is being met with appreciation by Georgia’s Muslim residents, who have long felt the need for broader acknowledgment of their role in the state’s social and economic fabric.
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