Whether you’re a Muslim observing the fast, or you want to create a supportive workplace, here’s what you should know this Ramadan.
What happens during Ramadan?
Ramadan is a period of profound spiritual reflection and communal rituals for Muslims throughout the UK. It’s a time to share meals with friends and family, and to celebrate their culture, heritage, and faith.
The fasting day is lengthy, with the pre-dawn meal marking the start and the fast being broken at dusk. This means going without food or drink (including water!) for around 13 hours, which can be particularly challenging, especially while at work.
That’s why it’s crucial to support your Muslim colleagues, stand in solidarity with them, and foster a team culture where everyone feels respected and valued, regardless of their background or beliefs.
How to wish someone a ‘Happy Ramadan’
To wish someone a Happy Ramadan, the greeting most commonly used is ‘Ramadan Mubarak’. This translates to ‘Blessed Ramadan’. Another commonly used greeting is ‘Ramadan Kareem’, which translates to ‘Generous Ramadan’.
The Trades Union Congress have provided some practical steps colleagues and employers can take to support their Muslim workmates and friends. We’ve broken them down here.
Ask colleagues if they’re observing Ramadan
Don’t be shy about asking Muslim colleagues if they will be observing Ramadan.
Some people may choose not to take part – perhaps for medical reasons – as fasting is a personal choice.
Be considerate
Ramadan should not interfere with daily work tasks, but fasting colleagues might feel tired or low on energy during the day.
The first ten days are typically the most challenging. If you have colleagues who are fasting, consider asking if adjusting certain aspects of work could help make things easier for them.
Be flexible
Ramadan involves more than just not eating or drinking during daylight hours.
It often means waking up early and eating late, and may include participating in late-night prayers at the mosque or at home. Ramadan is typically a period of deep spiritual reflection, congregational prayers, and numerous social dinners with family and friends.
Some employees might request adjustments to their workday or shift times, opt for shorter lunch breaks, or ensure they finish on time to break their fast at home.
Flexibility can help individuals work when they are most productive.
Additionally, some employees may have extra religious commitments during Ramadan. It might be particularly important for them to perform prayers on time throughout the week. Employers can assist by providing a quiet space for prayers and allowing short breaks.
The last ten days of Ramadan are especially sacred. Some Muslim employees might choose to take time off or request changes to their work schedules to participate in all-night prayers.
The end of the fasting period
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the fasting period. It’s like Christmas for Muslims – the biggest celebration of the year.
Muslims wish each other a happy Eid during the celebrations by saying “Eid Mubarak” and gathering with family and friends to feast and pray together.
The festival can last for up to three days – and also sees people donating to charity as part of the celebrations.
There is often some uncertainty about which day Eid will fall because it depends on moon sightings, so be prepared for your Muslim colleagues not to know the exact date.
This may also impact on when they can work and how much notice they can give you, as Eid can last up to three days.
Supporting colleagues during Ramadan is part of building a culture where everyone is respected and valued.
