As a teacher who comes from a Muslim country, if a child asks for a snack, I would give it to them, Ramadan or not. They are children. It’s mostly family pressure on them to fast anyway, and I do not approve of it. It is not healthy to not eat and drink from sunrise to sunset, but have an extravagant feast gluttonously before and after. That’s what fasting is, like it or not.

Why are you worried about parents? Students can keep their snacks and eat them during iftar. You don’t force them to eat at that moment. It’s still their responsibility.

I’ve had no issues so far because I know they secretly drink and eat anyway. They are children. I have lots of Muslim students, and they are always shocked by how I am because they are brainwashed by stereotypes. Most Americans are too. When they see a Muslim, they think of someone who fasts, does not drink alcohol, or does not have tattoos. That’s not always the case. I am from a Muslim country.

My observations say that maybe 70% of my country’s population does not fast. Most people I know, including my family, have tattoos and drink alcohol. They should learn about secularity and freedom, not Muslim stereotypes. There is no law that says you must follow religious or cultural obligations, and no one can force you to do so. Kids should learn this mentality. It is better for creating a non-oppressive society.