The last few days of the holy month of Ramadan are supposed to be a joyous time of the year for American Muslims. Spiritually, its believed to be a time when God blesses and forgives. The holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, is observed with prayers, food, gifts, and community bonding.

But this year, as Muslims await the beginning of Eid on Sunday or Monday , some are also full of anxiety about safety. Mosques hold special prayers and other activities during the final days of Ramadan, and attendance at worship centers swells, making mosque leaders especially concerned about security.

Against a backdrop of increased anti-Muslim hate crimes and rhetoric , sometimes simply going to a mosque to pray can be an act of courage.