Petition to Add Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr to Dumont Public School Calendar

We, the members of the Dumont Muslim Committee, respectfully request that Dumont Public Schools add the two major Islamic holidays, Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitr, to the list of school holidays during which schools are closed.

In Islam, these two holidays are celebrated globally by Muslims. Eid al-Fitr is observed at the conclusion of Ramadan, a month in which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Eid al-Adha commemorates the sacrifice made by Prophet Abraham and coincides with the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage. As the Muslim community in Dumont grows, it is becoming increasingly important to accommodate these religious practices. 

Both holidays follow the lunar calendar, meaning the exact dates vary each year. Eid al-Adha is determined 10 days prior, based on the sighting of the moon, while Eid al-Fitr is determined the night before. Because of this, we request that at least one day be given off for each holiday, allowing Muslim students to participate in prayer services and family gatherings, which are integral parts of the celebration.

Currently, these holidays are not recognized on the school calendar, forcing many students to miss school and important lessons, which causes stress and anxiety. Other religious holidays, such as Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, Christmas, and Easter, are recognized with school closures, and we believe it is only fair that Muslim students have the same opportunity to celebrate their faith without academic penalties. Recognizing these holidays will promote inclusivity and ensure that Dumont Public Schools supports the diverse religious needs of its students.

Sincerely,  
The Dumont Muslim Committee