Dear Instructors and Students,
This year Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, and Eid al-Fitr, one of two religious holidays Muslims observe yearly, will occur during the spring semester (Ramadan is scheduled to take place April 2 to May 2 and Eid al-Fitr on May 3).
We would like to remind you of the campus policies that outline the rights and responsibilities of both instructors and students with respect to course conflicts and accommodations of all types. The relevant policies are linked below and are also available via the Academic Accommodations Hub:
- Accommodation of Religious Creed
- Conflicts Between Extracurricular Activities and Academic Requirements
The Academic Senate has created guidelines for instructors and students to follow in navigating course conflicts and reasonable accommodations (see Checklist for Scheduling Conflicts with Academic Requirements). The Muslim Student Association (MSA) has also compiled a student resource for Eid and Ramadan accommodations. We encourage instructors and students to work together constructively to find the best feasible solution in each instance.
Students should note that it is their responsibility to inform instructors of their need for accommodation. Because this reminder is coming in the second week of classes, we ask that students request accommodations no later than Friday, February 11
During Ramadan, Cal Dining will provide adjusted meal options in the dining commons, including modified carry-out options that are specific to Ramadan. A meal plan is not required to purchase meals from the dining commons—any guest can pay for individual meals. There are contemplation and meditation spaces on campus; we will follow public health guidance for those spaces. Details, to be finalized with the Muslim student representatives, will be shared with the community later this semester.
Best regards,
Catherine P. Koshland
Interim Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost
Ron CohenChair, Berkeley Division of the Academic Senate
This message was sent to all deans, department chairs, instructors, and students.