6 Ways To Support Muslim Employees During Ramadan

Ramadan is a special time of year for millions of Muslims around the world. Many Muslims live in non-Muslim countries and they fast at their workplace during Ramadan this is very common, especially in North America where the Muslim population fasts and celebrates Ramadan. It's 30 days of fasting, reflection, and increased spiritual devotion, observed from sunrise to sunset. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food and drink during the day and engage in prayer, acts of charity, and increased self-discipline.

Saba*works in a communication company in New Jersey and fasts during Ramadan. As a woman in her 20s, she finds the experience to be a valuable exercise in discipline and appreciation. "For me, Ramadan is an exercise in discipline," Saba said. "It makes you appreciate what you have."

Ramadan In America

Many Muslims who observe Ramadan must fast during their 9-to-5 workday, making the experience a significant challenge. For non-Muslims, it can be difficult to know how to be supportive without accidentally offending someone who is observing Ramadan. 

Here are some tips from Saba and Ibrahim Hooper, the communications director at the advocacy group the Council on American-Islamic Relations, for colleagues and friends to be more informed and understanding during Ramadan:

1. Don't be afraid to ask questions

Many non-Muslims may not have a deep understanding of Ramadan, and there can be some misunderstandings. Asking questions can make Ramadan at the workplace better for both the employees and the employer.

 For example, some people mistakenly believe that Muslims fast for the entire 30 days without eating, when in reality, they eat when the sun is not up. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and most Muslims welcome inquiries from colleagues and friends. By being open about Ramadan, you can also help employees plan their meetings during the daytime when fasting Muslims have more energy.

2. Managers can offer special accommodations

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many American Muslims have been working from home during Ramadan. This can be replicated in Muslim fasting in the following years as well. The benefits for the employees are many:

• Work before the fasting begins
• Submit reports post iftar
• The Muslim worker can work while fasting from home and save commute time
• Make a hybrid model to come to work for a few days a week.

Muslims don't expect special accommodations, but it can be a great gesture of recognition and appreciation when managers ask their direct reports if they would like any special arrangements. Saba, for example, had a boss who asked if she needed any accommodations while observing Ramadan, and Saba asked to leave at 5 pm instead of staying late, which she normally did. The gesture made her feel appreciated and recognized.

3. Saying "Happy Ramadan" is appropriate

Muslims typically use the Arabic phrase "Ramadan Mubarak" to greet each other during the holiday. You can also have a Ramadan party for your Muslim co-worker to show inclusivity.

You can also use the phrase "Ramadan Kareem," which means "have a generous Ramadan." Saying "Happy Ramadan" to a coworker is not offensive or inaccurate.

4. Avoid asking about fasting 

Muslim women don't fast when they are on their periods, and there are many other reasons why Muslims may not fast during Ramadan, such as illness or travel. If you notice a coworker who is not fasting, it's best not to ask why unless they bring it up themselves. The same goes for publicly pointing out when a woman isn't fasting.

5. Don't apologize for eating or drinking

While you may think you're being considerate by not eating or drinking in front of a colleague who is observing Ramadan, you may be causing more harm than good.

Saba says it can get awkward when people apologize for eating or drinking around her. The whole point of Ramadan is for her to challenge herself, and she doesn't need anyone to feel guilty or awkward.

6. Avoid making jokes

During Ramadan, fasting colleagues may experience some inconvenience and it's important to be respectful and considerate.

Avoid making jokes about their fasting, especially in the context of food and drink. This can be very offensive and insensitive. Remember that this is a personal and meaningful experience for them and it's important to show support and respect.

Additionally, avoid making fun of their decision too fast, as this can be demeaning and diminish the significance of the practice. Instead, be supportive and show empathy for the challenges they may face during the month of Ramadan. Whether it's offering a helping hand or simply being a good listener, small acts of kindness can go a long way in creating a supportive work environment for your fasting colleague.