DURING THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN
Photo Credit: https://www.imperialvalleyislamiccenter.org/
Ramadan Kareem
For well over two decades, I have practice Islam. I have never claimed to be a perfect Muslim, but I do try my best to follow the tenets of my faith. Fasting for one month a year is prescribed on all Muslims throughout the world. Currently, I am only practicing Muslim housed at the GEO Group’s El Centro Detention Facility which is located in El Centro, California. When I first arrived at El Centro in December 2023, the chaplain, a Christian man, by the name of Chaplain Sanchez did everything in his power to ensure that I received a prayer rug, a Quran (our holy book), and I also received permission to wear a black Kufi (prayer cap) anywhere throughout the detention facility. Prior to the beginning of Ramadan this year, I met with the Food Service Manager at El Centro, a man named Chef Moreno. Mr. Moreno and I worked out a feeding schedule that would accommodate my observation of the obligatory Ramadan fast. Chef Moreno communicated effectively with his staff as well as with personnel from Security staff regarding the preparation and delivery of my Suhoor (breakfast) and Iftar (evening) meals. I could not believe how pleasant and smooth this Ramadan was. Everyone worked together in a well-coordinated, courteous, and cooperative manner. I was able to focus on my prayers and asked Allah (SWT) to protect the hungry children in Gaza while also praying for peace in the Middle Eastern Region. Because of the unfolding famine and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, my fasting this year was more significant to me than in other years. I most certainly am grateful and appreciative to be provided delicious and nutritious meals but in the midst of that, my heart aches for my Palestinian sisters and brothers who are struggling to survive.
I’d like to recognize the following GEO Group employees at El Centro for the respect they have shown me during the month of Ramadan:
- Chef Moreno, Food Service Manager
- CO Wong, Administrative Assistant to Mr. Moreno
- Chaplain Sanchez
- Warden Butt
- Mr. Garcia – Assistant to Warden Butt
- CO Campos – graveyard shift dorm officer
- CO Chavez – graveyard shift dorm officer
- CO Gallegos – evening shift dorm officer
- CO Castillo – graveyard shift dorm officer
- CO Roberts – daytime shift dorm officer
- CO Vega – daytime shift dorm officer
- CO A. Martinez – daytime shift dorm officer
- Ms. Ryland – evening shift kitchen supervisor
- All of the men and women employed as kitchen workers at GEO Group El Centro Detention Facility
One of the reasons that I have mentioned many of the correctional officers who work here is that they have defined themselves as professional and conscientious in the performance of their duties. There have been numerous instances where I have been sleeping soundly in the early morning hours and they have woken me up to ensure that I received my meal in a timely manner so that I would not violate my fast. I cannot say how important that is to me. They deserve to be recognized. Staying alert on the graveyard shift is not always an easy task.
Last but not least, I must give a huge shout-out to the men of Bravo East. These men have shown me an amazing amount of love and respect during the month of Ramdan, and they represent Imperial County in an honorable manner. Destination Freedom hopes that they continue their path towards redemption so that they may become the best version of themselves and be productive members of their community.
Here’s our song/video for this article: Bizzle – Way Up (ft. Sevin) (Official Music Video)
The men of Bravo East agreed that the Christian rap video “Way up” by Bizzle represents their positive outlook as they prepare to transition back into the community. We hope you enjoy and request that you share this article and this video by Bizzle far and wide.
