We would like to wish all our Muslim colleagues, allies, and friends a very happy Ramadan Mubarak, and Eid Mubarak.
Ramadan is an incredibly special time of the year for Muslims as well as increasing worship during this month, most Muslims also continue with their normal duties.
We encourage all staff to be aware of the significance of Ramadan and to be and to act as an ally and as a reminder to create an inclusive working environment for all.
When is Ramadan?
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, which is around 11 days shorter than the solar Gregorian calendar and therefore starts earlier each successive year.
The month starts on the night the new moon is sighted. Each month is 29 or 30 days. Last year Ramadan started on the 2nd of April.
The year it is expected to start on Thursday, 23rd March and is expected to end on Friday, 21st April.
As the commencement of Ramadan is confirmed by moon sightings, these dates may vary by one or two days.
Eid al-Fitr
Eid is a day of celebration. It is the first day of the 10th Islamic month called Shawaal and marks the end of Ramadan.
This year, Eid will either take place on Friday, 21st or Saturday 22nd April depending upon the sighting of the moon.
The day begins with congregational Eid prayer ideally in an open space. A special Eid zakat charity is made prior to offering the Eid prayer. This money is distributed to the poor to ensure they can celebrate Eid and is generally spent on food and gifts for children.
The Eid prayer is typically followed by celebratory meals and gift exchanges with family and friends.
What do I need to consider during Ramadan?
Fasting may affect people in different ways, for example fatigue and a change of routine.
Engaging colleagues and employees and showing understanding can be helpful to ensuring a productive working environment for all. We ask that all staff take time to show understanding during this time and respect the significance of Ramadan.
