Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

March 10 - April 9, 2024

Ramadan , observed by Muslims worldwide is a significant month in the Islamic calendar. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, focusing on self-discipline, spiritual reflection, gratitude, and empathy for others. Those of the Muslim faith refrain from food, drink, and smoking, and engage in increased prayer, charity, and reading of the Quran.

Iftar is the name of the meal eaten by Muslims at sunset to break their fast during Ramadan. It is the main meal of the day for those who are fasting. The other meal of the day for those fasting is called Suhoor , which is eaten early in the morning before dawn

Ramadan concludes with Eid-al-Fitr , a festive celebration marked by communal prayer, feasts, and the exchange of gifts, symbolizing the spiritual accomplishments achieved during the past month.

During this month, it is important to recognize those celebrating and support them. Some ways you can support your friends would include:

Be considerate when making plans: Arrange to meet earlier in the day when they may still have energy from their dawn meal. Offer alternative ways to hang out that don’t conflict with their fasting, like going on a walk instead of meeting for lunch.
Check-in on your Muslim friends: Feel free to ask them how they are doing. Doing so will help your friends feel loved, supported, and seen.
Don’t ask why someone isn’t fasting: There are many reasons, which may be personal. Those who are not able to fast may still choose to take part in other ways of worship.
Ask questions: Ask how you can best help your friends celebrate and practice their religion alongside life at LTU.

During Ramadan, you can exchange greetings by saying “ Ramadan Kareem ” which translates to “Have a generous Ramadan” in Arabic, or “ Ramadan Mubarak ” which roughly translates into “Happy Ramadan”.

Local Events

LTU Snack Baskets for Ramadan

March 11-15

College of Architecture + Design - Lobby
LTU Library

March 18-22

College of Engineering - Fireside Lounge
Dean of Students & Off. of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - Atrium

March 25-29

College of Business + Information Technology - Outside of the Dean's office (M331)

March 27-29

Athletics - Don Ridler Field house Lobby

April 1-5

College of Arts + Sciences - outside of Deans Office (S101)
College of Health Science - Don Ridler Field house Lobby

This year, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening on Sunday, March 10, 2024, and end on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. The Islamic Calendar follows a lunar cycle, and while these are the calculated expected dates of Ramadan, they can differ from place to place based on moon sightings or lack thereof. Iftar is the evening meal to break the fast; in support of our campus community that will break their fast at sunset, many departments will offer snacks on these dates after 4:30 PM.

Michigan Ramadan Market 2024

Saturday, March 2nd, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Stock up on your Ramadan and/or Eid needs while shopping and supporting local Muslim small businesses around Michigan.

More Info

Ready For Ramadan Workshop: A Time For Spiritual Growth and Reflection

Thursday, March 7, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

More Info

Ramadan Dessert Reception

Thursday, March 28, 8 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., UTLC Gallery (T210)

LTU International Programs invites you to a dessert and coffee reception. All are welcome.