Holidays and Cultural Observances: Welcome

Note that some cultures observe traditions with dates that are not released to the public, and may occur throughout the year at different times. Additionally, as awareness and the language used to describe cultural observances expand, you may provide feedback by contacting the Committee for Campus Inclusion at inclusion@asu.edu

Many religious observances require members to fast, and we encourage you to be aware of those times when students may appear distracted. For example, during Ramadan, your Muslim students may be coming into your courses hungry or dehydrated from a lack of food or water, or extremely tired from late night or early morning prayer sessions. Providing opportunities to flex or opt out of certain classroom activities gives them the space they may need, and makes your classroom more inclusive.

The following language can be used in your syllabus or for onboarding staff to create atmospheres of inclusion while also providing a framework for how to request accommodations.  

For Faculty: consider using the following language, adapted from the University of Pittsburgh, in your syllabi: 

The observance of religious holidays or cultural celebrations and practices (activities observed by a religious or cultural group of which a student is a member) are an important expression of identity and diversity. As your instructor, I am committed to providing equivalent educational opportunities to students of all belief systems. At the beginning of the semester, you should review the course requirements to identify foreseeable conflicts with assignments, exams, or other required attendance. If at all possible, please contact me within the first two weeks of the first class meeting to allow time for us to discuss and make fair and reasonable adjustments to the schedule and/or tasks.

For Administrators and leaders: consider using the following language for all staff reports, especially during the onboarding process: 

The observance of religious holidays or cultural celebrations and practices (activities observed by a religious or cultural group of which an individual is a member) are an important expression of identity and diversity. As your supervisor, I am committed to providing equitable treatment of staff members of all belief systems. For religious and cultural practices you plan to observe, please block off your calendar and communicate with me your needs.

As a global institution, Arizona State University emphasizes diversity and global citizenship. When planning activities faculty, staff and students can access this LibGuide for dates of religious holidays and cultural events, as well as to learn about dietary restrictions and recommended accommodations.

Kosher restrictions apply: Jewish dietary guidelines which apply daily throughout the year.  These restrictions include pork, shellfish (fish is allowed) and mixing meat with dairy.

Halal restrictions apply: Islamic dietary laws which apply throughout the year. These restrictions include alcohol and pork.

Occasional dietary restrictions for other religions are listed with the specific event to which they apply.