Ramadan Observances Begin April 12

4/12/2021

• New York State Guidelines for Religious Services

Ramadan is from Monday, April 12 to Wednesday, May 12. During the holy month, Muslims fast and do not consume food or drink during the daytime hours, but instead wake up early to eat a pre-dawn meal called suhoor and break their fast after sunset with a meal called iftar.

Please be mindful of the observance of this holiday, especially as it takes place during the final weeks of instruction, exams, and other credentialing exercises. Students and colleagues may be impacted by fasting and changes to sleep routines to accommodate nourishment.

Ramadan is a time for Muslims to gather with family and community within homes and mosques, much like gatherings that take place for Easter and Passover. It is common for mosques to host large iftars, especially in poor or under-served communities. Many will see these practices and traditions curtailed under the current pandemic, adding to the stress and sense of isolation for many members of our community who observe the holiday.

"We have seen the positive impacts of maintaining social distancing and encourage all members of the community to maintain those practices while carefully considering traveling and plans to gather in larger groups to observe the holiday," said Dr. Malika Carter, chief diversity officer. "Many mosques are streaming prayer services, and some are even hosting virtual communities to share in the iftar. While not a replacement for in-person gatherings, virtual connections to family and friends to share faith and reflection can be sustaining during such challenging times."

While SUNY does not have specific guidelines in place, copy and paste this link http://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/ReligiousandFuneralServicesSummaryGuidance.pdf into your browser for New York state guidelines for religious services during the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Ramadan is the Muslim month of fasting. Practicing Muslims will be fasting from dawn until dusk (approximately from 4:30 m. To 8:30 p.m.).

Fasting means no food and no water. (Also no smoking.)

Ramadan celebrations often involve gatherings and prayers late into the night.

It's not unusual to be up past midnight for prayers and then get up between 3:30 or 4 a.m. to eat before dawn.

Observers may be hungry, tired, and dehydrated, especially if participating in activities in the late afternoon.

ESF is creating inclusive and respectful learning and work environments during holiday and religious seasons and throughout the year. For interfaith and holiday celebration guidelines, visit https://www.esf.edu/ide/holiday.htm or https://www.esf.edu/registrar/.