Key Takeaways
- 25 non-Muslim council staff and elected members fasted a full day to honour Muslim colleagues during Ramadan 2026.
- The evening Iftar at Luton Town Hall featured dishes prepared and shared by Muslim councillors and colleagues.
- The event raised funds for an overseas Orphan Village providing children with housing, education, and healthcare.
Twenty-five officers and councillors at Luton Council abstained from food and drink from before sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 — a deliberate act of respect towards Muslim colleagues observing Ramadan.
The day ended at Luton Town Hall, where participants gathered for a communal Iftar to break their fast together.
Muslim councillors and colleagues arrived at the Iftar with a wide variety of home-prepared dishes.
Adam Kearney, Luton Council’s Head of Communications and the organiser behind the event, described the turnout as beyond expectations.
“We hoped for a strong response, but to have 25 people fasting and dozens of food contributions was fantastic,” he said. “Abstaining from food and drink for the day was challenging and humbling. It deepened our appreciation for what Ramadan represents and strengthened relationships across our organisation.”
He added that the generosity shown by Muslim colleagues in preparing food for everyone “perfectly captured the spirit of the month.”
Raising Funds for Vulnerable Children
The event carried purpose beyond the fast itself. Participants raised money for an overseas Orphan Village — a project that provides vulnerable children with safe housing, access to education, healthcare, and long-term support.
The Orphan Village project aims not only to shelter children at risk of exploitation and street life, but to equip them with education and sustainable support that builds lasting independence.
Noor Humayun, CEO of the CAP Foundation, welcomed the contribution warmly.
“Ramadan is a time when compassion is put into action, and the funds raised will directly support vulnerable children by giving them safety, education and hope for the future,” she said. “Initiatives like this truly make a life-changing difference.”
Mayor Praises the Community Spirit on Display
Luton’s Mayor, Councillor Amy Nicholls, took part in both the fast and the Iftar. Reflecting on the day, she said:
“I am incredibly proud of our officers and fellow councillors for taking part in this inspiring initiative. What we saw today is the very best of Luton — people of different faiths and backgrounds coming together in solidarity, respect and generosity.”
She added: “Fasting, even for one day, gives a small insight into an experience that is deeply meaningful to many across our town. Breaking the fast together this evening was a powerful reminder that our diversity is our strength.”
Luton Council has expressed hopes that the fast will become an annual fixture.
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