This month, the IDEAS Council reflects on the significance of Ramadan and the importance of Autism Awareness.
The Holy month of Ramadan, which ended on May 1, is observed by Muslims throughout the world. Ramadan is the ninth month in the 12-month Islamic lunar calendar. The Islamic lunar calendar is based on the monthly moon cycle, which can be 28-30 days long. According to this structure, Ramadan will fall 11 days earlier than the previous year’s start date.
The religion of Islam posits that the Quran, the Islamic Holy scripture, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad during the month of Ramadan. Muslims traditionally fast during Ramadan to commemorate the revelation of the Quran. From sunrise to sunset, Muslims will abstain from food and drink. This is an opportunity for spiritual growth and reflection.
Ramadan ends with a three-day celebration called Eid-ul Fitr (Festival of breaking the fast). Festivities include communal prayers, exchange of gifts, sharing of traditional baked sweets and visiting family. Some cities also will host large festivals and prayer gatherings. Ramadan is the opportunity to set habits of piety and dedication to family, which Muslims endeavor to keep year-round.
Autism Awareness Month, with April 2 being World Autism Awareness Day, was celebrated last month. In April, we focus on raising awareness about autism spectrum disorders, what it means to be autistic, and managing the issues that autistic people face. There are different types of autism such as Asperger’s Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and Kanner’s Syndrome just to name a few. If you’d like to learn more about the forms of Autism, please check out The Autism Society for helpful links, further reading, and ways to act or donate.
Over the coming months the IDEAs Council will be covering the following topics:
June – Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month
July – Pride and recognition of Juneteenth
August – International Non-Binary People’s Day
September – Hijri New Year
If any of these topics inspire you and you want to share your story, a friend or loved one’s story, or simply would like to expand on why the topic is important to you, please feel free to reach out to the IDEAs Council at ideascouncil@cmcenergy.com.