The Muslim holy month of Ramadan started on March 10, bringing with it new religious responsibilities for some employees and a need for awareness from employers.
President Joe Biden marked the start of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast during daylight hours, in a statement acknowledging the “immense pain” that the war in Gaza has inflicted on Muslims globally and a spike in islamophobia in U.S. communities and workplaces.
“As Muslims gather around the world over the coming days and weeks to break their fast, the suffering of the Palestinian people will be front of mind for many,” he said. “It is front of mind for me.”
Biden noted the “appalling resurgence of hate and violence toward Muslim Americans” largely as a result of the ongoing war. Reports show that many instances of antisemitism and Islamophobia have occurred in the workplace.
“My administration is developing the first-ever National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Related Forms of Bias and Discrimination, to take on hate against Muslim, Sikh, South Asian, and Arab American communities, wherever it occurs,” Biden said. “No one should ever fear being targeted at school, at work, on the street, or in their community because of their background or beliefs.”
SHRM Online has gathered additional news on Ramadan 2024.
Supporting Muslim Employees During Ramadan
Learn more about the holy month of Ramadan and support Muslim workers to help increase their sense of belonging.
A Ramadan Etiquette Guide for Non-Muslims
Is there anything you should do so you don’t come across as insensitive to your friends who are fasting during Ramadan? Here are some recommendations to consider.
(CNN)
Tips For Young Muslim Professionals During Ramadan
Young Muslim professionals face the unique challenge of having to balance ibadah, or worship, during Ramadan with working full-time for the first time. Several young Muslim employees offered tips for managing this balance, including how to request accommodations at work.
Navigating Religious Beliefs in the Workplace
The workplace is filled with employees of various religions. Managing these points of view with respect and equity can create a culture where employees are happier and more productive while also making legal compliance easier for the employer.
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