Ramadan Mubarak
Muslims around the globe will soon begin observing the holy month of Ramadan, a period of deep spiritual reflection and fasting that takes place every year.
The festival begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, which usually appears one night after a new moon. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening of Friday, February 28, and end on Saturday, March 29. The celebration of Eid al-Fitr (Festival of the breaking of the fast) will likely be on March 31. The Islamic Calendar follows a lunar cycle, and while these are the calculated expected dates of Ramadan, they can differ from place to place based on moon sightings.
Ramadan is about more than just not eating and drinking. Ramadan marks the ninth month in the Islamic calendar when the Quran is believed to have been revealed to the Prophet Muhammed. It is a time for Muslims to contemplate on their spirituality, seek deeper personal connection with God, reflect on their blessings, celebrate with loved ones, and commit to becoming better versions of themselves through fasting, giving charity, and strengthening community. A common saying is “Ramadan is a time to starve the stomach to feed the soul.”
Many of our S:US staff, people served, and community members observe Ramadan, and we can support their spiritual journey as they fast daily from dawn to sunset.
Here are some direct ways you can be supportive:
- Ask how you can be supportive before offering your support
- During the holy month, be flexible with scheduling and assignments to allow for prayer and fasting
- Use “Ramadan Mubarak” (Blessed Ramadan), “Ramadan Kareem” (Generous Ramadan), or “Blessed Ramadan” as greetings rather than “Happy Ramadan”
- Please don’t ask a Muslim whether they are observing fasting since it can vary for everyone
- The month-long fast during Ramadan is part of the Islamic faith, so don’t appear shocked that a Muslim is fasting without food or drink during the day
- Please know that it is not offensive to eat in front of your fasting co-workers
Salam to our Muslim Community and Ramadan Mubarak!