Ramadan Observance 2022

Dear Faculty and Staff Colleagues,

We are writing today to ensure that all Seattle University faculty and staff are aware that Ramadan, the holy month of fasting in the Islamic calendar, is expected to begin Friday, April 1 and continue through Sunday, May 1. (Ramadan dates are based on the lunar calendar which is why the start and end dates are estimated).  Consistent with our Jesuit and Catholic commitment to inclusion and respect for all faith traditions, we ask that every effort be made to support students observing this religious holiday.

Muslims observing Ramadan practice fasting, and neither eat nor drink from sunrise to sunset. The fast is broken after sunset usually by eating dinner which is often followed by prayer. Observant Muslim students may face some challenges in completing their assignments during the day, as well as experiencing varying degrees of impact with regard to learning and living conditions. For example, students who have been fasting may experience fatigue or low energy, as well as logistical hurdles. Per SU’s Policy on Religious Accommodations for Students, students will be encouraged to utilize the Student Academic and Religious Accommodations Request Form to contact their faculty to seek accommodations and work through any challenges they face in observing their religious practices surrounding Ramadan. We are asking students to contact their supervisors directly with respect to requesting accommodations for on-campus employment.

We ask that you please extend our students your courtesy and partnership to assist them in honoring their religious commitments. We also ask that you extend similar due consideration to our faculty and staff colleagues who may need to make adjustments during this period as well as they observe Ramadan. We thank you in advance for your dedication to our mission of educating the whole person enlivened by our values of Faith, Diversity, and Care.

We have communicated this affirmation to the deans and trust that we can all work together to assist our students, and faculty and staff colleagues in honoring the commitments of their faith tradition. For additional support, you can contact Erin Beary Andersen, Associate Director in Campus Ministry, at bearye@seattleu.edu.

Thank you very much for your cooperation and consideration.

Sincerely,

Shane P. Martin
Provost

Natasha T. Martin
Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion