Dear Marist community,

Ramadan Mubarak!

I am writing to share that the holy month of Ramadan begins at sunset today. Ramadan is celebrated annually by millions of Muslims worldwide. It occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and calls Muslims to engage in a month-long period of fasting, spiritual reflection, charitable giving, and worship. Those fasting during Ramadan do not eat or drink from sunrise to sunset.

As one of the essential Five Pillars of Islam, Ramadan commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an to the Prophet Muhammad. It begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, forecast this year to be on March 22, and continues until the start of the Festival of Eid al Fitr on April 21, which marks the end of the month-long fast.

Because Marist is a diverse and welcoming community with various religious and cultural traditions,  I ask that we support our Muslim students, faculty, and staff by being sensitive when scheduling events, making plans, and interacting with those observing Ramadan. Please join me in wishing our Muslim students, faculty, and staff  Ramadan Mubarak, one of the traditional greetings used during this holy month (meaning have a Blessed Ramadan). 

Edward P. Antonio, PhD
Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Tel: 845-575-3340
Edward.antonio@marist.edu