What Ramadan means to me
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Published 7 Mar 2024 in Raising Awareness
Our story today is all about the religious month of Ramadan. Hear from our Inclusion Allies Network members for Religion, Amina Imran and Soniya Ali, on what they’re planning on getting up to this Ramadan.
Hear from two of our Inclusion Allies for Religion, Amina Imran and Soniya Ali, on what they are doing during Ramadan this year…
Amina, what are you doing for Ramadan this year?
This year, I’d like to personally invite our colleagues to a volunteering opportunity! We mentioned earlier that Ramadan is about building good, consistent habits, which includes helping those in need. If you would like to ‘do good together’ with me by volunteering at a homeless shelter with a faith-based organisation in Birmingham, drop an email to DiversityAndInclusion@midcounties.coop. You can read more about the project here.
Note: This opportunity is open to everyone, regardless of your religious (or non-religious) background! 😊
Soniya, what are you doing for Ramadan this year?
Every year I like to support several different charities by donating to specific causes. Many Muslims around the world will be observing Ramadan differently, specifically the Palestinians in Gaza as they have restricted access to water, food and medical treatment with over 65% living below the poverty line. It is important for us to help each other in time of need if we have the means to do so.
I have provided some links below to some registered charities if you would like to join me in donating.
Islamic Aid | Muslim Relief Charity Working to End Poverty
Islamic Relief UK - A Muslim charity guided by Islamic values (islamic-relief.org.uk)
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide, marks the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is heralded as the holiest period of the year.
This sacred time commemorates the revelation of the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), serving as a period for atonement and seeking closeness to God.
The commencement of Ramadan is determined by the local sighting of the moon, leading into a month-long observance concluded by the celebratory days of Eid al-Fitr (‘The feast of breaking the fast’).
Some Interesting Facts
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The start of Ramadan is based on the lunar calendar, making the exact dates shift approximately 10-12 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar.
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The observance of fasting during daylight hours is aimed at fostering self-control, empathy for the less fortunate, and a greater sense of spiritual growth.
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Despite the fast, the evenings of Ramadan are vibrant and communal, with Muslims gathering for the 'Iftar' meal to break their fast together.
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Only healthy Muslim adults are required to fast. Examples of groups of people who don’t need to fast include women who are pregnant, on their menstrual cycle or breastfeeding; the old and frail; people with long-term health conditions etc.
How is Ramadan Celebrated?
During Ramadan, adult Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual activity from dawn until sunset. However, those who are ill or have medical conditions are exempt from fasting.
This practice not only demonstrates self-discipline but also enhances empathy for those in need, encouraging acts of generosity and charity. Muslims are encouraged to make a concerted effort to give up bad habits, and develop good ones, such as practicing patience and feeding those less fortunate.
The pre-dawn meal is known as 'Suhoor', and the fast is broken with 'Iftar' at sunset, often shared with family and friends. Many also attend mosques for nightly prayers, further enriching their spiritual journey.
Supporting your Muslim Colleagues During Ramadan
Recognising and accommodating the needs of Muslim employees during Ramadan is an essential part of fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace.
Simple adjustments, such as flexible working hours, providing prayer facilities, and being mindful of their fasting, can make a significant difference.
Awareness and understanding of Ramadan can promote a positive work environment for all employees and support our Muslim colleagues in observing this holy month.
As we approach Ramadan 2024, let's embrace the opportunity to learn, support, and celebrate with our Muslim colleagues, enhancing our collective understanding and appreciation of this sacred time.