11 Ways to Support Colleagues and Friends During Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. As friends, colleagues, and community members, there are many approaches to show support during this time. Here are 11 meaningful ways to be mindful and understanding during Ramadan.
1. Be Aware of Fasting Times
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset for 29 to 30 days. This means no food or drink during daylight hours. Be mindful when scheduling meetings, events or asking colleagues to participate in strenuous activities, as their energy levels may fluctuate throughout the day.
2. Offer Flexibility
If you’re a manager or supervisor, privately check in with employees observing Ramadan to see if they need any accommodations. Offering flexible work hours—such as coming in early, leaving early, or working from home—can be helpful. Additionally, allowing employees to use their lunch break for rest can make a big difference.
3. Provide Prayer Spaces
Muslims pray up to five times a day, including during work or school hours. Let those observing Ramadan know which spaces—such as an unused conference room—are available for prayer.
4. Respect Wudu Rituals
Before prayers, Muslims perform a ritual cleansing known as wudu, which involves washing the face, hands, arms, and feet. If you see a colleague washing more than just their hands in the restroom, be respectful and avoid staring or questioning.
5. Offer Campus or Workplace Support
For students and employees, Ramadan can bring unique challenges. Some may request accommodations such as rescheduling exams, moving presentations, or taking extended breaks for prayer and breaking their fast in the evening. Being open and flexible helps create a respectful environment.
6. Be Considerate About Eating and Drinking
Most Muslims do not mind if others eat or drink in front of them. However, asking about their preference can be a thoughtful gesture, as some may appreciate a space away from food during fasting hours.
7. Avoid Comparisons to Other Religious Practices
While fasting exists in various religious and spiritual traditions, Ramadan is unique to Islam. Avoid equating it with practices from other religions, and instead, approach the topic with curiosity and respect.
8. Ask Questions
Many Muslims welcome genuine questions about Ramadan. If you’re unsure about something, ask! Being open to learning can also help with planning meetings and events at times when fasting individuals have more energy, such as in the morning.
9. Use Respectful Greetings
If you’d like to greet someone during Ramadan, you can say:
- "Ramadan Mubarak" (Have a blessed Ramadan)
- "Ramadan Kareem" (Have a generous Ramadan)
- "Happy Ramadan" (A simple and widely accepted English greeting)
10. Avoid Insensitive Remarks
To ensure a respectful environment, avoid:
- Asking someone why they are not fasting (some may be exempt for personal or health reasons).
- Making jokes about fasting or not eating.
- Commenting on weight loss due to fasting.
11. Celebrate Together
Consider hosting an iftar, the meal that breaks the daily fast at sunset. Inviting colleagues or friends to share in an iftar meal, or even bringing a dish for them, is a meaningful way to celebrate and show support.
By practicing awareness, respect, and inclusivity, we can create a more welcoming environment for our Muslim colleagues and friends during Ramadan. Small gestures of understanding can go a long way in fostering a sense of community and support.