Advocating for Cultural Competence in Child Welfare Cases:
Supporting Muslim Families During Ramadan
Advocating for cultural competency in the Department of Children and Families (DCF) practices is critical, particularly when it comes to supporting Muslim families and recognizing the importance of their cultural and religious backgrounds in child welfare cases. Family law, especially within the child welfare systems, often assumes a standardized approach to caregiving and parenting, which may not be in alignment with the diverse dynamics of Muslim families. This lack of cultural awareness can inadvertently strip families of their cultural identity, creating barriers in maintaining their faith-based practices. For example, during Ramadan, when Muslim families observe fasting from dawn until sunset, their daily routines are vastly different from what is expected in a typical care or visitation setting. During Ramadan, Muslim families are fasting and observing spiritual obligations that may affect their behavior, routines, and interactions. As Ramadan approaches, beginning on the evening of March 1, 2025, it is crucial for legal professionals to approach their advocacy with a deep understanding of the unique cultural and religious practices Muslim families will be observing, particularly in the context of legal conflicts involving the Department of Children and Families (DCF), ensuring that clients’ rights and faith-based needs are respected during this significant time.
One key aspect of cultural competency is recognizing the importance of Islamic traditions in Muslim family dynamics. During Ramadan, Muslim families are also guided by specific spiritual practices that affect their ability to engage with care procedures. For instance, medications or treatments that may be administered during Ramadan must be evaluated carefully to align with Islamic practices. “Some medical interventions, such as eye drops, ear drops, and certain forms of dental care, are permissible during fasting, but others, like oral medications or IV fluids, would require breaking the fast.”[1] Legal professionals advocating for Muslim families in DCF cases must navigate these cultural nuances, ensuring that the faith and religious observances of the family are respected while still promoting the child’s well-being. An example of this would be advocating for customized care plans that respect the family’s religious practices while still adhering to necessary medical interventions.
Attorneys representing Muslim families in child welfare cases should seek a balanced approach that combines legal requirements with cultural awareness. By taking the time to understand the faith-based practices influencing parenting decisions, such as fasting during Ramadan or opting out of certain medical treatments, legal professionals can ensure that their clients’ cultural identity is respected and preserved. This approach promotes a more inclusive child welfare system, one that embraces and values cultural diversity. Understanding the needs of Muslim families requires recognizing the influence of Islamic beliefs on decision-making, family dynamics, and health practices. With greater cultural competence, attorneys can advocate for personalized solutions, such as arranging Iftar visitations during Ramadan or tailoring DCF action plans to align with the family’s cultural and religious values. Such advocacy not only honors the family’s faith but also enhances the chances of a successful outcome by fostering a more supportive and culturally sensitive legal environment.
[1] Attum B, Hafiz S, Malik A, et al. Cultural Competence in the Care of Muslim Patients and Their Families. [Updated 2023 Jul 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499933
Written By: Alba Ago, Bacon Wilson Law Clerk 2024-2025.
Reviewed and Approved by: Julie A. Dialessi-Lafley – Family Law Department Chair