Campaigning During Ramadan

Inclusive Campaigning

• A number of UCB students will be fasting throughout the entirety of your campaigns period. This means that they will not be eating or drinking anything from sunrise to sunset, or practice an iteration of this.
• Consider swapping out free sweets or snacks for something that’s non-consumable, so that students who are fasting can still participate and enjoy.
• People’s energy levels whilst they’re fasting can vary greatly, it helps to be mindful of this when speaking to students.
• Where appropriate, ask students about their Ramadan experience, wish them a blessed Ramadan (Ramadan Mubarak), and show an interest in their journey! It can make for great conversations.
• Please make an effort to look out for other candidates who may be fasting, and help us ensure they don’t feel pressured to push past their limit. We want this to be a safe, fair, and enriching Election experience for everyone.

If you are fasting

• The most important thing is that you stay safe and look after yourself: Please be mindful of your energy levels and don’t push past your limits.
• You will know best how much you can take, trust yourself and listen to your body and mind.
• Take breaks whenever needed, your campaign will still be there in half an hour!
• If your campaigning day is scheduled to run past sunset, remember to bring something to eat and drink to break your fast with.
• Consider mobilising a campaigns team ahead of time who can support you, especially during the times when you may be praying throughout the day, or when you need to take some rest.
• Take pride in what you’re accomplishing: Fasting and campaigning can each be really strenuous on their own. You’re managing to do both at once, you’re a superstar!

If you have any concerns or questions about campaigning and Ramadan, please don’t hesitate to reach out to elections@ucbguild.co.uk.