The months of February, March, and April are very religiously important for the majority of the world. This year, Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting and worship, takes place from Feb 17 to March 19. Overlapping with this is Lent, the 40 day long Christian season of fasting and reflection. Lent is from February 18th through April 2.
With Christians and Muslims collectively making up approximately 54.4% of the global population, these two observances are of deep importance to a large number of people throughout the world, and Uni is no exception. Many Uni students are currently observing one of these holidays, and due to the sacrificial nature of both, may be having a slightly different school experience.
When asked to briefly explain what Ramadan is to those who may not be informed, one Uni Sophomore, Hannah Elshenawi, said that the purpose of the holy month is to “be grateful for what we have and our privilege to be able to eat. Also, to have more time to get closer to God.”
On the topic of commonly asked questions from non-Muslim students during Ramadan, her response was quick. She said “ ‘Not even water’” is one of the most commonly asked questions. She followed that up with “People don’t get that fasting is literally not eating or drinking until sunset.” Questions like these come up every year for individuals celebrating Ramadan, and it can often be exasperating.
When asked about the experience of celebrating Ramadan while at Uni, she described it as generally positive in comparison to her previous school. Still, there are ways that Uni could be more accommodating. “I think maybe giving us our own place to pray instead of needing to find whatever’s empty.”
One big way that Uni accommodates students fasting for Ramadan is by exempting them from PE, something that is either not advertised or not even an option at many other schools in the area. This year, that option has also been extended to students fasting for Lent.
During this season, students should be conscious of and sympathetic towards their classmates who may be fasting. A little bit of extra research into the traditions and meaning behind Lent and Ramadan can go a long way towards fostering an environment of tolerance, acceptance, and constant learning, something that Uni is always striving towards.
