We are entering an important part of the spiritual year for many individuals and faiths. Recognizing important religious days is important as we support every member of our community to feel like they belong here.
We’re writing to remind the community that on key days, we should all be prepared to support individuals who are celebrating or marking religious observances and acknowledge that, on these days, some of our people may not be present for their classes, activities or work.
In particular, we want to recognize that Ramadan is an important holy month for Muslims in our community that started on Friday, April 1. We know that many of you may be celebrating Eid al-Fitr on or around Sunday, May 1 to mark the end of your fast. This may mean that folks who are celebrating may not attend classes at the start of our Spring Term on Monday, May 2.
If this applies to you, please know that we support you if you need to be away from the University on this day. If you are concerned about missing class or work on this day, please let your instructor or supervisor know and they will support you as needed.
Spring is an important time of year for many other religions. We are approaching Passover and Good Friday on April 15, when the University will be closed, and Easter Monday on April 18. Buddhists will celebrate Vesak – the day Buddha was born – on Monday, May 16. Whatever you may be celebrating this spring, we want to know that the University supports you while you’re balancing the rigours of being a student or employee here at Waterloo.
We are committed to creating a campus where everyone belongs, where we all work toward equity, and strive for a culture of authentic inclusion. If you need support or guidance on religious accommodation or observance, please reach out to our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-racism Office using their web form.