12 Ways to Support Your Muslim Friends and Colleagues During Ramadan

Supporting your Muslim friends and colleagues during the month of Ramadan is not only thoughtful but also a great way to familiarize yourself with the Islamic values that they follow. Here are the 12 ways you can support your Muslim friends and coworkers during Ramadan:

Learn about Ramadan

Take the time to learn about Ramadan’s significance in Islam. This could involve reading about its traditions, rituals, and the spiritual importance it holds for Muslims. This will not only show your respect for their beliefs but also increase your knowledge about the religion.  

Respect their fasting hours 

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, which means they don’t eat, drink, or even smoke during this time period. So, it’s important to remember this and not offer them anything to eat while they are fasting. 

Provide space for prayers 

Help your Muslim colleagues pray by allocating a quiet workspace for them where they can fulfill their religious duties without any disturbance. These areas should be clean, accessible, and equipped with facilities that may help them, such as a praying mat. 

Be considerate with lunch invitations 

Understand that fasting Muslims may not be able to join lunch gatherings during Ramadan. Respect their choices without judgment and offer alternative ways to connect with them, such as rescheduling outside of fasting hours. 

Offer flexible work arrangements

If possible, be flexible with their work schedules to accommodate fasting and prayer times. This shows the company’s consideration and support for its Muslim employees. 

Show empathy

Fasting can be hard, both physically and spiritually. Acknowledge these challenges and show empathy towards any difficulties that your Muslim friends and colleagues may face during this time. Offer your help to them if needed. 

Respect their prayer times

Be mindful of prayer times and avoid scheduling meetings or tasks that may conflict with their religious practices. This shows you care about your Muslim friends and colleagues and respect their beliefs. 

Don’t assume

Refrain from making assumptions or believing negative stereotypes about Muslims or Ramadan in particular. Keep an open mind while talking to them and ask questions instead of assuming. 

Don’t pity them

Let’s clear this: ‘Ramadan doesn’t hurt Muslims.’ Yes, that’s true. As much as you feel sorry for them for not eating from morning to evening, Muslims feel happiness in doing so. It’s a part of their religious practices, which they’re proud of, and we should respect that instead of feeling pity. 

It’s ok to make mistakes

Your Muslim friend or colleague would not expect you to remember their fasting practices at all times. Even if you accidentally make a mistake by saying something like, ‘would you like a cup of coffee?’, don’t be embarrassed. They’d know you didn’t do it intentionally. 

Don’t give them looks

Don’t stare at your Muslim friends praying or doing ablution (the practice of washing before prayer). Doing so, you might come off as rude, making them feel incredibly awkward about them. 

Eid greetings

Eid Al-Fitr is a festival marking the end of Ramadan. You can say ‘Eid Mubarak’ to your Muslim friends and colleagues and even participate in their Eid celebrations if invited. You can also give them a thoughtful gift, showing your acknowledgment and respect for their culture.