Supporting an employee or colleague during Ramadan can be a meaningful gesture of empathy, respect, and solidarity. Here are some ways you can support them during this sacred month:
Respect Fasting Hours
Ramadan involves fasting from dawn until sunset and abstaining from food, drink, and other impermissible activities. Employees have more energy when they’re still feeling strong and alert in the morning. They’ll get more tired as the day progresses, so try to schedule your meetings in the morning.
Show Empathy and Understanding
Take the time to learn about Ramadan’s significance. Understand that it extends beyond physical fasting, encompassing moral behaviour, kindness, and spiritual reflection. Express empathy and a willingness to accommodate your colleague’s religious practices during this sacred month.
Proactively Manage Time Off Requests
The final ten days of Ramadan are the holiest. Expect more time off requests as staff celebrate Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, employees may need to request holidays on short notice. Be flexible and supportive when granting time off during this period. This year, Ramadan is March 11 through to an estimated date of April 9.
May this Ramadan bring joy, health, and wealth to you. Ramadan Mubarak. 🌙✨
Any other ideas?