Supporting your Muslim colleagues during Ramadan

With the holy month of Ramadan underway, it's a time for reflection, spiritual growth, and communal harmony. Fostering an inclusive society, including within the workplace, is at the heart of what we do.

With many of our Muslim team members observing this holy month we've curated their views and put together a guide to help navigate Ramadan with respect and celebrate diverse cultural and religious practices.

1. Acknowledge and Educate

Understanding the significance of Ramadan is the first step towards creating an inclusive environment. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is associated with the revealing of the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad, ad marked by fasting and spiritual contemplation. Consider acknowledging the observance and its impact on your team members by organising awareness sessions or sharing informative materials to cultivate understanding among colleagues.

It is important to note that during the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset and night hours are reserved for worship and reflection. Due to this, employee energy levels could be low so it's also worth being considerate with meeting times. 

2. Flexible Schedules for Fasting

Recognising the variable schedules during Ramadan is crucial. Many individuals observing fasting might appreciate flexible working hours to accommodate early morning or late evening commitments. Embracing a flexible approach demonstrates empathy and support for your team members.

3. Mindful Break Times

During Ramadan the Iftar meal, breaking the fast at sunset, holds great importance. Be mindful of break times and create quiet spaces that allows individuals to pray as part of their day. Encouraging a supportive culture around break times contributes to a positive and inclusive workplace.

Additionally, making sure your Muslim co-workers don't feel excluded from food-related events is also important to keep in mind. Providing something for your Muslim colleagues to eat later could be an option. 

4. Open Communication Channels

Encourage team members to express their needs or share experiences related to Ramadan. Creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing their observations and requirements promotes a sense of belonging and inclusivity.

In our own efforts to promote open communication during Ramadan, we reached out to our Muslim coworkers for their thoughts. Our Customer Service Advisor Zeinab shared that Muslims often engage in charitable activities, particularly focused on food assistance and financial support.

Additionally, Zeinab suggested the idea of "Iftar parties." These gatherings, held at sunset when fasting concludes, provide an opportunity for communal breaking of the fast. It's a wonderful way to foster connection and understanding among team members.

It is also important to know what not to say, some employees might not be fasting because of medical reasons. Furthermore, women are also excluded from fasting during menstruation. If you see someone fasting one day and not another, it is normal. Don't force people to explain, especially in public.

5. Celebrate Diversity

Take this opportunity to celebrate the diversity within your workplace. Consider organising events or initiatives that recognize and honour various cultural and religious traditions, including Ramadan. Embracing diversity fosters a sense of unity and understanding among colleagues.

By acknowledging, respecting, and celebrating the unique practices associated with Ramadan, we contribute to the creation of a workplace where everyone feels valued and included.

Wishing everyone a blessed Ramadan! 🌙✨