2024 EC Summer Camp Registration Open!
Wishing You a Blessed Ramadan

Wishing You a Blessed Ramadan

March 11 marks the beginning of the holiest month of the Muslim calendar, Ramadan. Learn more about this month-long celebration.

By EC Marketing and Communications Staff

March 11 marks the beginning of the holiest month of the Muslim calendar, Ramadan. This ninth month of the Muslim calendar begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon, so some countries begin their observance tomorrow.

Islamic tradition says God revealed the Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad on the "Night of Power," during Ramadan. Britannica states, "For Muslims, Ramadan is a period of introspection, communal prayer (ṣalāt) in the mosque, and reading of the Qurʾān. God forgives the past sins of those who observe the holy month with fasting, prayer, and faithful intention."

This month is a time for reflection and a festive time for celebration and joy because it is spent with loved ones. A three-day celebration called Eid al-Fitr is held at the end of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a time for Muslims to practice self-restraint, or "ṣawm," one of the pillars of Islam. This is most commonly seen through "The daily fast in Ramadan [which] includes abstaining from all food and drink; not even a sip of water is allowed…" After sunset, Muslims gather to break their fast with a meal called "ifṭār," shared with friends and extended family.

Below are tips for how to be respectful of our Muslim friends, neighbors, colleagues, students and families during this month:

  • Be aware of your eating habits. As one article states, "If you share an office with someone fasting, maybe eat your delicious, juicy cheeseburger in the office break room rather than at your desk, where your poor, suffering Muslim coworkers will have to smell it and salivate…”
  • Refrain from offering parts of your food or drink.
  • Try to schedule dinner parties after sunset.
  • You can say "Ramadan kareem" which means "have a generous Ramadan" or "Ramadan mubarak" which means "have a blessed Ramadan."
  • As always, be wary of potentially harmful language directed toward our Muslim students as they navigate their fasting and celebration during Ramadan.

A blessed Ramadan to all who celebrate!


If you have questions about Ramadan, please contact Director of Equity and Social Action Jenny Abbey.

Read Additional Blog Posts