Illinois Governor calls for respect and tolerance of religious differences

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Associated Press

Story Created: Sun Aug 19, 2012 1:49 PM

Story Updated: Sun Aug 19, 2012 1:51 PM

BRIDGEVIEW, Ill.— Gov. Pat Quinn is calling for respect and tolerance of religious differences as Muslims mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
   
Quinn spoke at a Muslim prayer service in Bridgeview on Sunday. He says he honors Muslims' commitment to their faith and will "vigorously protect" the right of Illinois' more than 400,000 Muslims to practice it.
   
He renounced recent incidences of violence and intimidation based on religion.
   
The governor also signed a new law to protect college students who miss a class or exam because they're observing a religious holiday. It takes effect January 1.
   
Ramadan is considered the holiest month of the year in the Islamic faith, and Muslims fast each day from sunrise to sunset.
   
The month ends with a three-day festival known as Eid (EED).