After weeks of working with the jail sergeant and lieutenant, I finally met with the lieutenant and got permission to fast, as well as to bring in Arabic, English, and Spanish Qurans and prayer rugs for everyone who was praying.
We held our Friday prayer. I led the prayer and gave a sermon on how to use your time wisely during Ramadan. The other inmates deeply appreciated it. I also spoke to the kitchen staff and, with permission, arranged for sandwiches to be provided at night so inmates could eat before dawn—a first in this jail’s history. The inmates received sealed sandwiches so they had something for suhoor before beginning their fast.
You, your mom, and your family made something happen that had never been done before in Dega jail.
After 8 p.m., we held the first Ramadan night prayer. Because inmates had translations, they could follow along in their own language. They read in English while I led the prayer in Arabic, holding the text in their hands as they followed.
After a month of preparation with no response, it was incredible to finally receive feedback. Since February 1st, we had been pushing for Ramadan accommodations. I had nearly given up on getting prayer rugs or any special considerations. But after all the waiting and effort, seeing it come to life was absolutely worth it.
