NCJ Number
198112
Journal
Corrections Compendium Volume: 27 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2002 Pages: 6-7
Date Published
November 2002
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This document describes the religious rights and duties of Muslim inmates.
Abstract
It has become apparent that administrative and security personnel in many prisons do not understand the religious rights and duties of Muslim inmates. This material will help criminal justice personnel find ways to permit observant Muslim inmates to practice as many of their religious duties as good prison practice allows. Muslims are forbidden to eat ham or pork as meat, soup, or gravy. A separate menu or alternative food source should be provided to Muslim inmates. Every Muslim is required to pray five times each day. An alarm clock or other method of indicating the time should be provided to Muslim inmates. Every Muslim should have access to the Koran. Inmates should be allowed to purchase their own Koran or have one provided to them. Every Muslim must fast during the month of Ramadan each year. Muslim inmates should be allowed to have a late feeding time if the normal time is prior to sunset or they should be allowed to have food in their housing area that they can eat after sunset. Every Muslim is required to wash his or her hands, face, head, ears, arms, and feet before every prayer and before handling the Koran. The provision of soap and water at a place convenient to where the inmates will pray or handle the Koran should be no problem in a prison environment. Female Muslim inmates must be completely dressed, except for face and hands, in front of other males or females. Dressing, bathing, and toilet facilities should be provided with a door or curtain for both male and female Muslim inmates. Muslims have the right to be alone with their spouses in a private room. If security does not permit a furlough for an inmate to meet with his or her spouse in their home, then a private facility within the prison should be considered.