A Guide to Supporting #Muslim Colleagues During #Ramadan ??

?? As we approach the upcoming month of #Ramadan (expected to commence on Monday or Tuesday), I would like to share #insights on supporting our #Muslim colleagues during this holy month. ??

Before delving into ways to offer support, let's explore why #Muslims observe #Ramadan in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. This month bears profound significance as the #Quran was first revealed, with #Muslims believing that the gates of Heaven are open while the devils are confined in Hell until the last day of the month. It is a time of heightened devotion, reflection, and drawing closer to 'Allah,' marked by abstaining from 'un-Islamic' practices and cultivating a sense of peace.

So, what steps can you take? (Disclaimer: These are personal suggestions, and others may have different perspectives.)

Understanding Ramadan: Commence by familiarising yourself with Ramadan – a month of fasting, reflection, and increased devotion. Recognise its profound significance. ????

Ask with Respect: Feel free to inquire about Ramadan but be mindful of personal boundaries. Ask questions about Ramadan customs and traditions, steering clear of sensitive inquiries like why someone might not be fasting on a specific day. ????

Accommodate Flexible Working: Consider flexible working requests, especially for those working from home. This may involve adjusted shifts, earlier or later start times, or shorter/no lunch breaks. ???

Annual Leave Requests: Acknowledge that annual leave requests may surge during Ramadan, particularly around the festival of Eid. Be considerate and adhere to annual leave policies. Note that the exact day of Eid is uncertain and will be announced the evening before, prompting many colleagues to take a few days off at the end of the month for Eid celebrations. ????

Schedule Meetings Thoughtfully: Recognise that colleagues observing Ramadan may experience increased fatigue. Schedule important meetings in the morning when energy levels are typically higher. ????

Rest Breaks and Prayer Facilities: Be mindful that fasting colleagues may require more rest breaks. Providing prayer facilities demonstrates inclusivity and respect for religious practices. ??????

Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid scheduling significant events during Iftar and demonstrate sensitivity to religious practices, fostering an inclusive work environment. ?????

Eating and Drinking Considerations: Don't worry excessively about eating and drinking in front of Muslim colleagues, especially in non-majority Muslim countries. However, be attuned to cultural differences in other countries. ????

Experience Fasting: Feel free to participate in fasting for a few days or hours if you feel comfortable. Embrace any invitations to breaking fast, as it provides a unique and delightful experience. I still fondly recall many invitations from diverse communities and families which I enjoyed tremendously. ?????

Overall, #Ramadan is a month of #family #connections, increased acts of #worship, #charity, and #spiritual reflection. While it brings joy, it can also evoke memories of those lost since the last Ramadan.

Begin by practising the simple greeting of "#Ramadan Kareem" or "#Ramadan Mubarak," conveying wishes for a blessed Ramadan. ????

Finally, if you see me around the office with my eyes closed or during video calls (nodding off) I’m in deep contemplation (rather than having a power nap). ?Let's foster diversity, create truly inclusive workplaces, and celebrate the richness of Ramadan together! ??

#RamadanSupport #InclusionAtWork #CommunityConnection #DiversityInWorkplace

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