Jewish

A week-long observance commemorating the liberation and exodus of the Israelites (Jewish slaves) from Egypt during the reign of the Pharaoh Ramses II.

Date details: Begins at sundown on the first day listed and ends at nightfall on the final day listed. This involves refraining from activities that are defined as work (see general practices below) on the first and last two full days, which may include a break from classes.

General practices: Family gatherings, ritualized meals (Seders), reading of the Haggadah (that tells the account of the redemption of the Israelites form Egyptian slavery), lighting of Yahrzeit memorial candle at sundown on the last night of Passover, eating matzoh, and giving charity to the poor called Mao’s Hittim. Refraining from certain activities that are defined as work, including (depending on the level of observance): the use of electricity and electrical devices, use of cell phones and computers, riding in a car or public transportation, and writing.

Potential accommodations: Avoid scheduling important academic deadlines, events, and activities on the first two and last two days of the holiday. Provide food accommodation as requested (kosher restrictions apply — the use of leavening is prohibited, so matzah is eaten in place of bread, for example).