Religious Fasting Safety and Ally Support at Work

Fasting Safety at Work

At work and at home, here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your time of religious fasting is
pleasant and safe for you and your loved ones.
 
 During the workday, limit your heat exposure and take regular breaks. Pause when you feel you
need to rest.
 Make sure you get enough sleep before work. Sleep deprivation increases the risk of heat stress on
the body.
 Stay hydrated by drinking water when permitted.
 Pay attention to dehydration symptoms including headaches, weakness, drowsiness, and extreme
thirst.
Ramadan Observers:
 Don’t skip Suhoor. This light morning meal energizes your body and helps regulate your blood
sugar.
 For more energy and vitality, make sure your morning meal is balanced by including complex
carbohydrate sources, vegetables, fruit, and protein from meat or legumes.
 If you plan to pray at work, help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by bringing your own mat and not
sharing with others.

If you don’t feel well, notify your manager as soon possible.

Supporting Muslim Amazonians as They Observe Ramadan

 
Ramadan, considered by observing Muslims worldwide to be the holiest month of the year, observed in
early Spring (depending on sighting of the new moon). Whether you are observing yourself or want to
support your co-workers who are, there’s plenty to learn. Here’s a quick orientation for those who want
to learn about the holy month of Ramadan.

What’s Ramadan?
Ramadan is when Muslims believe the Quran, Islam’s holy book, was revealed. Fasting from dawn to
sunset each day is an important element. During the month, Muslims traditionally wake for a small pre-
dawn meal (suhoor) of fruit, yogurt, lentils, and more. During daylight hours, Muslims can consume
nothing, not even water. After sunset prayers, a feast known as iftar is shared – it’s a social time with
family and friends. The month of Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration that marks the end of
fasting.

How You Can Support Amazonians Who Observe Yom Kippur

 
Building a welcoming and inclusive culture is essential to what we can achieve as a team. Our employees
come from a wide variety of backgrounds, so a diverse, multicultural Amazon is important to us. We
want everyone to feel supported and safe when coming to work.
 
What is Yom Kippur?
Yom Kippur, known as the Day of Atonement, is the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Occurring in early
Fall, it is traditionally observed with a day-long fast, prayer, and special services.
 
Fasting at Work
Fasting can take an adjustment for the body, and while some people are unaffected, others could feel
the impact during work hours - becoming dehydrated, dizzy, or otherwise ill. If you or your co-worker is
struggling, tell your manager.
 
Our diversity is a part of what makes us strong. Amazon’s ability to innovate on behalf of our customers
relies on the strengths and perspectives of people from all backgrounds.