RRC Polytech is dedicated to fostering a respectful community that values diversity, inclusion, and equity — a place where we come together to learn from one another, celebrate our unique cultures and experiences, and support each other. Our community is one where everyone is welcomed for who they are, and for the contributions we can create together.

In 2026, the sacred month of Ramadan begins around February 17 and ends around March 19. Ramadan is a meaningful time for Muslims around the world, marked by obligatory fasting and a spiritual cleanse.

To members of the faith, the ninth month on the Islamic lunar calendar is considered the holiest, and healthy adults who are able are required to fast from food and drink during the sunlit hours as a means of drawing closer to God and cultivating self-control, gratitude, and compassion for those less fortunate. Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion and special prayers.

At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate one of their major holidays called Eid ul-Fitr or the “Festival of the Breaking of the Fast.” In 2026, the holiday will be celebrated around March 20, and features prayer, ceremony, food, games and presents for children as friends and family spend time together.

While the personal commitment to these sacred rituals may go unnoticed by some and spark curiosity in others, please be mindful that this observance may result in altered sleep patterns, changes in energy levels, increased anxiety around meeting deadlines, and requires a commitment to prayer timings.

Here are a few ways for non-Muslims to be supportive of students, staff and members of the Polytech community who are fasting for Ramadan:

• Be flexible, adaptable, and respectful.
• Be conscientious of how much physical energy is required for an activity or outing you may propose, the time of day in which meetings or events may fall, and the settings in which you are doing them.
• There are also various reasons Muslims may not be fasting, premised in the faith tradition or entirely personal, so you shouldn’t assume or ask someone if they’re observing. Please respect their privacy unless they choose to share and engage.
• Be an ally in your department to those who are observing Ramadan and seek out more information to better understand and support your colleagues.

Click here to learn more about Ramadan.