Each year, 1.8 billion Muslims around the world celebrate #Ramadan, a deeply meaningful time of fasting, reflection, service, and community. Muslims look forward to it with excitement and anticipation. A thread ... https://twitter.com/afreen_nh/status/1376776656854081538

But it's also a time of change and adjustment as Muslims balance their faith practices with both work and personal obligations. #Ramadan begins on April 12, so today, we’re sharing ways you can practice allyship and support your colleagues who may be observing Ramadan.

#Learn about Ramadan and how Muslims observe the month. Fasting is a cornerstone, and most Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset . Of course, refraining from food or water for over 12 hours can be a lot, and while fasting can be energizing, there's also brain fog and fatigue.

Pro-tip: Some Muslims do not fast for personal reasons; don't pry.

Muslims are also asked to focus on spiritual and emotional growth and refrain from gossip, lying, anger, or other bad habits . Prayer is a big part of Ramadan; many Muslims will stay up at night or wake up early in the morning for reflection and prayer.

#Ask: It’s ok to ask questions...as long as you’re coming from a place of wanting to understand...also maybe avoid asking from a place of shock or disbelief. https://twitter.com/WasabiHanna/status/1128387694529269762

Here’s 3 questions to help fuel your conversations:
• What’s your favorite part about #Ramadan? What makes it meaningful for you?
• What do you and your family do to celebrate and observe #Ramadan?
• In a global pandemic, how is this #Ramadan going to be different for you?

#ShowUp: Make space for your Muslim coworkers, whether it's adjusting work hours, or just moving a meeting. #FaithInclusion actually helps get the best out of your people, but also, it's just the right thing to do. https://twitter.com/Shaimaaxoxo/status/1374545423612923906

Pro-tip for those fasting: Add a note about Ramadan to your email signature to create space for understanding, empathy, and dialogue!

Sending gifts or edible goodies ? To be inclusive, check the ingredients: if there is alcohol, gelatin, or pork, ask the recipient or use an alternative to be safe before sending! Also, most Muslims only eat halal meat.

The Islamic calendar follows the lunar calendar, so Muslims celebrating the culminating holiday of #Eid may not know what days they need off until the evening before. It depends on the moon ! Be as flexible as possible! https://twitter.com/SaarahBhaiji/status/749390397147869184

#SpeakUp: Sometimes, we all need someone who will speak up and hold space for us. This Ramadan, be that person for your Muslim co-workers and friends.

Globally, there’s increasing fear around Islamophobia and many Muslims are going into this #Ramadan having lost family members or friends to Covid-19. Offer extra grace and voice your support.

If you see discrimination or bias, but also if you see meetings being scheduled late in the day when energy levels of those fasting have tanked, speak up. #Inclusion happens when we all speak up in support for each other, even when we ourselves aren’t directly impacted.

#Ramadan is a truly special time for Muslims all over the world. And it’s made that much more meaningful by the friends and coworkers who practice allyship and empathy! #BeliefBelongs

Will you be observing #Ramadan ? Share this thread with your team so they can learn more! #RamadanMubarak, and may this month bring light and blessings to you and your loved ones!