Concerns about academic penalties for missing class to attend Eid al-Fitr prayer and religious accommodation rights at a Georgia university.

Question

With Eid al-Fitr approaching, I am concerned about my university professors' strict attendance policies, which do not distinguish between 'excused' and 'unexcused' absences. Although I have communicated the importance of the holiday to them, I worry about being penalized academically for missing class to attend the Eid prayer. My university promotes religious accommodations during Ramadan but is unclear about Eid-related absences. Additionally, while an office for DEI and accessibility exists, students face confusion about our rights for religious holidays. How do First Amendment rights to religious accommodations apply in this academic setting, and does the professors' status as independent contractors affect this?

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

You have the right to request religious accommodations, and the First Amendment helps protect your ability to observe significant religious events like Eid al-Fitr. Many institutions extend these protections through policies that address religious holidays, even if the details for Eid may not be explicitly outlined. 
 
Your concerns about strict attendance policies are valid, and you may want to engage with the office for DEI and accessibility to get clear guidance on your rights. It is advisable to communicate formally with your professors and academic advisors, explaining your need to observe the holiday and referencing your rights under applicable religious accommodation laws. 
 
Keep detailed records of your communications and any responses you receive, and consider seeking additional advice from campus legal services if necessary. This proactive approach can help align your academic responsibilities with your religious commitments.

Q: Concerns about academic penalties for missing class to attend Eid al-Fitr prayer and religious accommodation rights at a Georgia university.