News & Updates
Celebrating Diversity - Happy Ramadan 2025
by
Hamza Razaq | Feb 27, 2025
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Dear Students, Staff, and Faculty,
As part of our ongoing commitment to celebrating the rich diversity of our college community, we are delighted to share insights about Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide. This sacred month is a time of spiritual reflection, unity, and generosity, and we encourage everyone to learn about and support our Muslim colleagues, friends, and peers during this period.
Ramadan 2025 Overview
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, is expected to begin on Friday, February 28, 2025, and conclude on Sunday, March 30, 2025 (subject to moon sighting). During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, engage in prayer, charity, and community gatherings.
Key traditions include:
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Suhoor: Pre-dawn meal before fasting.
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Iftar: Evening meal to break the fast.
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Taraweeh: Special nightly prayers.
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Zakat/Sadaqah: Acts of charity.
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Eid al-Fitr: Festive celebration marking the end of Ramadan.
Events by the DBS Student Islamic Society
Our Student Islamic Society in collaboration with our Pakistani Students Society will host a series of events throughout Ramadan 2025! Stay tuned for details on:
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Community Iftars: Open to all for shared meals and dialogue.
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Educational Workshops: Learn about Ramadan’s spiritual significance.
More details and schedules will be shared soon via the society social media channels and via the student experience eventbrite link Here.
Supporting Fasting Friends & Colleagues
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Inclusive Language: Acknowledge Ramadan in class/meetings (e.g., “Happy Ramadan” or “Eid Mubarak”).
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Peer Support: Check in with classmates who are fasting—small gestures of kindness matter!
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Respect Quiet Spaces: Some may use lunch breaks for prayer or rest; be mindful of shared spaces.
What are the benefits of fasting during Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan allows Muslims to practice self-discipline, strengthen their faith in Allah, and become more conscious of their blessings. It helps people become more aware of their actions and guard against temptation. Additionally, it encourages charity as those who fast contribute money or donate goods to help those less fortunate than themselves. Fasting can also help improve blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.
It can be a time for reflection and spiritual growth as people take time to connect with their faith. Fasting during Ramadan is a great way to build community. People often gather together for meals at night or pray together throughout the month.
This can be an opportunity to strengthen relationships with family and friends while deepening your connection with your faith.
Misconceptions about Ramadan?
A common misconception about Ramadan for non-Muslims is that it is a time of fasting and deprivation. While fasting is an integral part of observance, it is also a time for spiritual reflection, charity, and community. It’s a time to focus on one’s faith and connect with others in meaningful ways.
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Do all Muslims fast during this month? No! In fact, not all Muslims are required to fast, such as those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, ill, or elderly.
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Is Ramadan only observed in the Middle East and North Africa? No! While it is widely practiced in these regions, it is also celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
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Does Ramadan last only one month? It can last anywhere from 29 to 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle.
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Do Muslims stop working during Ramadan? No! In fact, Ramadan is a time of increased productivity and prayer for many Muslims. Many Muslims continue to work during Ramadan, but they may need to adjust their schedules, such as fasting during the day and working at night. The majority of Muslims consider Eid al-Fitr as a holiday after Ramadan.
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Do Muslims not eat or drink anything during the whole day during Ramadan? No! While fasting does involve abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours, many Muslims break their fast with a meal known as iftar after sunset each day of the month-long observance.
How Everyone Can Participate
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Attend an Iftar: Join the Islamic Society’s open meals to experience this beautiful tradition.
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Educate Yourself: Visit the links below to learn more about Ramadan.
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Practice Kindness: A smile, a thoughtful word, or donating to a campus charity drive can make a difference.
Resources & Further Information
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College Wellbeing Team: Reach out for support with academic adjustments or wellbeing.
Let’s come together to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. Ramadan Mubarak to those observing—may this month bring peace, growth, and joy to all.
Warm regards,