Authorities in Hamburg have become the first in Germany to officially recognize Islamic holidays so Muslim employees and students can celebrate them at home. The decision forms part of an agreement between the north German city and local Muslim groups. Similar agreements exist with Christian and Jewish communities in the city. Hamburg's mayor, Olaf Scholz, said Tuesday that he hopes the deal will serve as an example for other German cities. Tens of thousands of Muslims live the city of five million people. The growing public presence of Islamic culture in Germany has sparked anger among conservatives and far-right groups. source-- http://www.todayszaman.com/news-289554-german-city-hamburg-to-recognize-islamic-holidays.html