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Category: Diversity Blog

September 2022 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of our September diversity calendar events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar.

September is a busy month for most people! Between the change of season, the start of a new school year for families, countless birthdays, Labor Day Weekend, and so much more, most people have packed calendars. This year, get some September diversity days on your schedule as well. This will keep you motivated to learn about new cultures and practices around you.

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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September 15 to October 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month was first declared in September 1989. It aims to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community. During this month, the independence days of several Latin American countries are also celebrated. These include Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Chile.

National Recovery Month

This is a national observance held each September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices for substance use disorder. It was launched in 1989 by SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). During this time, you can honor National Recovery Month by reaching out to anyone you know in recovery, attending 12-step meetings, or posting on social media about your own progress or experience.

September 20: HeForShe

Our list of September diversity topics includes HeForShe is a social movement campaign created by the UN to promote gender equality. It’s targeted at men to become the agents of change for women’s rights. If you’re a man, here’s how you can be a better ally for gender equality.

  • Actively listen to women and their perspectives
  • Reflect on your own power and privilege as a man
  • Credit your female coworkers’ ideas fairly
  • Advocate for gender-equitable policies in the workplace
  • Challenge sexism and speak up when you hear sexist language used
  • Take on your full share of the housework and childcare at home

Building strong allyship on your radar? Head to our online diversity training page for useful resources.

September 22: Autumnal Equinox

Fall is now upon us! The autumnal equinox may seem like a simple shift of seasons, but around the world, it’s the time for various religious observances worldwide. Discover more interfaith events with our list of key religious holidays 2022.

September 25 to September 27: Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah, a September multicultural celebration, is the Jewish New Year festival. The holiday officially begins at nightfall, and those following the rabbinical customs will attend synagogue services to recite a special liturgy about teshuva. Eating symbolic foods is also now a tradition of the holiday. Some symbolic foods include apples dipped in honey. If you’ve never celebrated Rosh Hashanah previously, you may try participating in some of these customs.

Final Thoughts

Which diversity days do you want to learn more about this year? Explore more for rest of the year with our Equality and Diversity Calendar 2022.

August 2022 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of our August diversity calendar events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar.

August is what you make of it. For some people, it’s a hot month without holidays and the return of routine (if they have kids in school). For others, it’s a relaxing month where they take vacation time. However you typically think of this month, try challenging yourself by integrating August diversity days into your personal or work calendar. Celebrate a religious holiday that you’ve never heard of or take a new book out of the library about someone on this list.

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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  • Schedule Quickly & Respectfully
  • Celebrate Monthly Themes
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August 4: Barack Obama’s Birthday

On August 4, we celebrate the birthday of the U.S.’s first Black president. Some of his most notable achievements include the Affordable Care Act, the Paris climate change agreement, and Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA). He was also awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.

August 9: International Day of the World’s Indigenous People

This day was created by the UN to celebrate the culture of indigenous people around the world. Here are a few recommendations to incorporate this  August diversity celebration at your workplace…

  • Educating yourself by listening to podcasts and radio programs that highlight indigenous voices
  • Supporting indigenous artists
  • Donating to indigenous-led solutions
  • Taking action to protect indigenous land defenders
  • Learning about indigenous language poetry

August 30: Al-Hijri

Al-Hijri marks the start of the New Year in the Muslim faith. It begins on the evening of August 29 and ends on the evening of August 30. To celebrate this religious holiday, Muslims will make resolutions and spend time with family just like others would on January 1. However, it’s important to note that there’s a significant difference in how the holiday is celebrated between the two sects of Islam (Shiites and Sunnis).

August 15: Feast of the Assumption

This Roman Catholic feast day is often known as simply “The Assumption.” It’s a holy day that marks the Virgin Mary’s bodily ascent into heaven at the end of her life. Depending on the country, this day may be celebrated by festivals, fireworks, and colorful street processions.

August 18: Birth of Lord Krishna

This August multicultural holiday is also called Janmashtami. It celebrates the birth of one of the most popular deities in the Hindu faith. People celebrate by fasting, singing hymns, visiting temples, preparing feasts, and praying together. Discover more interfaith events with our list of key religious holidays 2022.

August 24: Marlee Matlin’s Birthday

Marlee Matlin is the only hearing-impaired actor to win the Oscar for Best Actor or Best Actress. This is a big win for people with disabilities and shows just how significant representation is. Here are some ways you can be inclusive of deaf culture:

  • Speak directly to people instead of their interpreter
  • Look directly into the camera when speaking
  • Make sure that only one person speaks at a time
  • Take meeting minutes and have them distributed

August 26: Women’s Equality Day

Each year on August 26 we celebrate Women’s Equality Day. It commemorates American women gaining the right to vote in 1920. It was passed in Congress in 1973. To celebrate, we suggest creating a women’s mentoring program at your office, donating to a women-focused cause, or checking out a book from the library on your favorite iconic woman. Strengthen your workforce by fostering gender sensitivity and inclusion with our online diversity training 

August 31: Ganesh Chaturthi

Our August multicultural calendar includes Ganesh Chaturthi, a 10-day Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Ganesha. Lord Ganesha is the God of new beginnings and a fresh start and the festival normally lasts 10 days long. If you need a fresh beginning this August, consider learning more about this practice and celebrating the festival.

Final Thoughts

August is all about expanding your horizons! It’s never too late to start learning about diversity and integrating it into your life. Get a head start on the rest of the year with our Equality and Diversity Calendar 2022.

July 2022 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of our July diversity calendar events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar.

It’s summertime! When most of us think of July, we think of the fireworks celebrating the founding of the United States. However, several other diversity days are worth our attention. Here are some July diversity topics that should be on your radar this year.

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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July 2: Thurgood Marshall’s Birthday

Thurgood Marshall was the nation’s first Black Supreme Court Justice. This year, we’ll celebrate his birthday with the first Black woman, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, on the court. These individuals are vital reminders of just how much representation matters. In addition to being a justice, Marshall was also a well-known civil rights activist.

July 6: Dalai Lama’s Birthday

Happy birthday to the 14th Dalai Lama, the most famous Buddhist teacher in the world. The Dalai Lama is widely respected for his commitment to both nonviolence and Tibetan freedom. He was awarded the 1989 peace prize for advocating for solutions based on tolerance and mutual respect. Despite being exiled from Tibet, he has continually sought to preserve the historical and cultural heritage of his people.

July 6: Frida Kahlo’s Birthday

July diversity celebrations include the birthday of Frida Kahlo (Women, Mexican): one of the most recognizable painters of the 20th century

July 7: The Hajj

Our July diversity month includes The Hajj, an annual pilgrimage and one of the pillars of Islam. All able-bodied Muslims are required to undertake the journey to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Once in Mecca, all Muslims perform a series of rituals. Discover more interfaith events with our list of key religious holidays 2022.

July 18: Nelson Mandela’s Birthday

On this day, we celebrate the birth of the South African civil rights leader. He won the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993. He then served as the country’s first Black president from 1994 to 1999, leading the country’s transition from apartheid to multiracial democracy. Mandela demonstrated that all people can make a positive impact on the world through small acts of kindness. Consider spending this day volunteering for a local cause. And celebrate Mandela’s legacy by fostering greater racial inclusion with online diversity training.

July 25: Pioneer Day

Pioneer Day, a July multicultural holiday, is associated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (also known as the Mormon Church) as well as a Utah State holiday. It officially marks the date when LDS church founder Brigham Young arrived in the Salt Lake area. To celebrate, most people take the day off, watch fireworks, walk the Mormon Trail, go to picnics, etc.

July 26: Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

In 1990, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA. This civil rights law made it illegal to discriminate against people with disabilities in areas like employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, and access to state and local government programs/services.

Celebrate the anniversary of the ADA by conducting in-house training to increase sensitivity for people with disabilities. Or review physical or architectural barriers in your workplace, and ensure your website and other digital assets are compliant for people with visual and other impairments.

Final Thoughts

Every day is a great time change the world – and create greater equity and inclusion – with a small act of kindness or celebration of diversity. Get a head start on the rest of the year with our Equality and Diversity Calendar 2022.

What Are Microaggressions?

Microaggressions

Microaggressions are one of the 4 essential types of diversity training in the workplace. They’re behaviors or statements that do not necessarily reflect malicious intent, but which nevertheless inflict insult or injury.

The term was first coined after the Civil Rights era – around the late 1960s or early 1970s. During this time, visible and violent expressions of racism were replaced by subtler manifestations. Today, “microaggression” has become a buzzword in the social justice arena, and now we’re breaking it down for you to understand.

Workplace Microaggressions Training
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What are some examples of microaggressions?

After reading the above definition, do you know what a microaggression is? Can you think of one you’ve witnessed?

If not, we don’t blame you. Unless you’ve learned about them before or been a victim yourself, microaggressions can be tricky to conceptualize. It’s not because they don’t exist – it’s because they’re like implicit biases. Microaggressions and implicit biases are often not “problems” to anyone who isn’t directly impacted by them.

As psychologist, author, and Columbia professor Derald Wing Sue, Ph.D., puts it, microaggressions are “the everyday slights, indignities, put-downs, and insults that people of color, women, LGBT populations, or those who are marginalized experience in their day-to-day interactions with people.”

Here are some examples. See if any of these are familiar to you!

ThemeMicroaggressionMessage
Alien in own land“So, where are you from?”You are a foreigner
A White person does not want to acknowledge race“When I look at you, I don’t see color.”Denying a person of color’s racial/ethnic experience
The notion that the values and communication styles of the dominant/White culture are the ideal/”norm”To an Asian, Latino, or Native American, “Why are you so quiet? We want to hear what you think. Speak up more!”Assimilate to the dominant culture
A statement made when bias is denied“I’m not racist. I have several Black friends!”I could never be racist because I have friends of color
Statements that assert that race or gender does not play a role in life successes“I believe the most qualified person should get the job!”People of color are given extra unfair benefits because of their race
White dominant society expect Black folks to be less competent“You’re so articulate or well-spoken.”This remark suggests that they assumed that the person would be less articulate and are surprised to find out that they aren’t

How do microaggressions actually harm people?

Dr. Sue writes that microaggressions cause frustration, self-doubt, anxiety, and cumulative emotional, psychic, and spiritual burden. Unlike macroaggressions – the large-scale, overt aggressions that mostly occur at the systems level – microaggressions are interpersonal. In fact, they commonly occur in academic and professional settings. This means that microaggressions are committed by people you know and in settings you should be comfortable and feel safe in.

How to disarm microaggressions

If you’re commonly on the receiving end of microaggressions, it can be an exhausting experience. How do you disarm them without exceeding your emotional bandwidth? Denise Evans, a certified facilitator of implicit bias and cultural intelligence workshops in West Michigan, suggests using wittiness. She, herself, is black. Here’s an example of how she “throws” microaggressions right back at the individual she’s speaking with.

If an individual tells her that she’s “well-spoken” or “articulate” – a known microaggression – Evans doesn’t miss a beat.

“I have said, ‘Thank you very much, so are you,’” says Evans. She then asks, with a smile, why they felt the need to say anything, including a list of possible reasons in her question: Is it because she’s a native New Yorker? A woman? Black?

And I literally wait for [an] answer,” she says. “I give people their microaggression and their implicit biases back in a pretty box with a nice bow on it. I hand it to you, and I wait for you to open it and tell me what you see.”

While you may find this awkward at first, as an educator, Evans says that these are teachable moments. Brains have made unconscious associations, and we have the power to undo the damaging ones (i.e. “African American and “uneducated or “women” and “assistant”).

Keep following our diversity and inclusion planning articles to learn more.

As well, keep up to date with our 2022 diversity calendar for the upcoming year.

Learn more about Interfaith with our 2022 Interfaith calendar for this year.

June 2022 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of diversity events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar.

Many people believe that June is one of the best months of the year and that’s certainly true when it comes to diversity and inclusion events. If you love marching for what you believe in and celebrating those around you, this is your month! Here’s what you should keep in mind for the month of June.

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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LGBT Pride Month

If you’re a new ally to the LGBTQ+ community, welcome! June is Pride Month, and it’s you’ll be seeing rainbows to signify this all month long. June was selected in honor of the Stonewall Riots, which took place on June 28, 1969. During this event, the NYC police raided Stonewall Inn, a gay club located in Greenwich Village. The police roughly hauled both employees and patrons from the bar, and the incident ended in violent protests and clashes in the streets for six days. It catalyzed the gay rights movement in the U.S. Create more inclusion with LGBT Sensitivity Training.

Caribbean American Heritage Month

June is also Caribbean American Heritage Month which recognizes the history and culture of Caribbean Americans in the United States. During this time, Caribbean Americans or individuals with Caribbean American heritage will come together to celebrate their history through a variety of activities including traditional meals, festivals, concerts, dancing, parades, etc.

June 2: Indian Citizenship Act of 1924

Congress enacted the Indian Citizenship Act on June 2, 1924, which granted citizenship to all Native Americans born in the U.S. Yet, while this was an important date in history for Native Americans, they were not permitted to vote in all states until 1957.

June 12: Loving Day

On this day in 1967, Loving v. Virginia struck down all anti-miscegenation laws in 16 states. This effectively ended bans on interracial marriage. Because interracial relationships are much more common today, many people forget that this was such a monumental win for love. Head to your local library to check out books about the civil rights movement and all it fought for.

June 12: Puerto Rican Day Parade

This parade is the largest demonstration of cultural pride in the United States. The goal of this event is to create awareness and appreciation of Puerto Rican culture and history. Due to COVID-19, the Puerto Rican Day Parade has been canceled in recent years. However, historically, you’ve been able to see it along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan and on TV.

June 19: Juneteenth

Juneteenth took place on June 19, 1865, when all slaves in Texas were liberated. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was issued at the start of 1863, the news didn’t reach all states or slaves until over two years later. Today, 47 states and D.C. recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday or observance. Create more inclusion and belonging with racial sensitivity training.

June 27: Helen Keller’s Birthday

Happy Birthday, Helen Keller! Known for being both deaf and blind, Keller became a pioneer in advocacy for individuals with disabilities. She is one of the 20th century’s leading humanities, and she also co-founded the ACLU.

Final Thoughts

 Keep June colorful with lots of learning about diversity! Our multicultural calendar can help you know what’s coming up.

Get a head start on next month with our July 2022 Diversity Calendar. Or explore the rest of the year with our Equality and Diversity Calendar 2022.

Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace

A few years ago, Starbucks made headlines when it closed its stores for all employees to attend an anti-bias diversity training. The training came after an incident in a Philadelphia Starbucks in which two young African American entrepreneurs had the police called on them and were led out in handcuffs after less than 10 minutes after they arrived. Their crime? They had been waiting for a business meeting to begin and had not yet ordered anything.

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The company responded with a mandatory racial bias training for all employees because, according to Jen Randle, a consultant who helped coordinate the trainings, “Starbucks is a microcosm of what’s happening in the United States. We all have bias. It doesn’t matter your race or ethnicity.”

So, let’s assume that’s Starbucks truly is a microcosm…of society…of your workplace. And let’s explore how diversity (when properly implemented) can truly benefit all.

Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace

  1. Diversity provides fresh perspectives

Hiring people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and nationalities opens the door for fresh perspectives. Inevitably, you open your company up to benefits like increased problem solving and productivity because not everyone thinks the same way.

Some hiring managers struggle with the thought of bringing in different types of people and personalities. It can be intimidating to introduce unpopular opinions and awkwardness. Ultimately, they’re throwing off the status quo. That said, research has demonstrated that more diverse teams have a 60 percent improvement in decision-making abilities.

  1. Diversity is better for recruitment and retention

A company seeking diverse candidates has access to a wider talent pool. As you reflect on your hiring process, you may find that you’re picky about traits that don’t make an employee successful at your company, and this could be weeding out potential candidates. Embrace diversity in background, thought, ethnicity, culture, nationality, etc. so you can find good hires.

Furthermore, after you’ve hired individuals, having a diverse workforce can improve your retention rate. Most employees and job seekers desire a diverse workforce and take this into account when evaluating companies and their job offers. Companies that emphasize diversity are more likely to attract and keep the best talent.

  1. Diversity increases profits

Everyone has their eye on the bottom line. The good news is that focusing on diversity and enhancing it within your workplace will only improve your profitability. One 2015 McKinsey report found that companies in the top quartile for ethnic and racial diversity in management were 35 percent more likely to have financial returns above their industry means. Another study by BCG found that increasing the diversity of the leadership teams leads to improved financial performance. These findings demonstrate just how important it is to prioritize your staff. You handle your staff, and they’ll handle the work.

Final Thoughts

As beneficial as diversity can be, it doesn’t truly act alone. Thus, you should truly be considering the benefits of both diversity AND inclusion. If you’ve ever wondered why you hear about “diversity and inclusion” collectively, it’s because they work in tandem. Diversity is essential for all the benefits above, but without inclusion, there can be a diversity backlash. Go check out our article on Benefits of Inclusion in the Workplace and read about its importance.

For more diversity topics, see our 2022 Diversity Calendar.

Keep up to date with our 2022 Interfaith calendar for this year.

May 2022 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of diversity events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar.

Continue celebrating diversity in the month of May! If you want a full month of celebrating diversity, this is your time to shine. You’ll be able to recognize mental health awareness, older Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders all month along with sporadic diversity days that keep the month fun and exciting. Let’s see what the month has in store

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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Mental Health Awareness Month

This May diversity month theme raised awareness for individuals living with mental or behavioral issues and seeks to reduce the stigma that they experience. We suggest celebrating Mental Health Awareness month by understanding how stress impacts your body, developing your support network, and reaching out to friends or family members that you believe may be struggling.

Older Americans Month

May diversity celebrations: established in 1963, Older Americans Month is led by the Administration for Community Living. It seeks to celebrate the accomplishments of the elderly as well as raise awareness concerning elder abuse and neglect.

Jewish American Heritage Month

Jewish American Heritage Month is a May diversity celebrations. This yearly observance recognizes American Jews and their their importance to our nation. To celebrate this event, make a Jewish recipe, tour a museum, or pick up some Hebrew words!

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Our May multicultural calendar salutes Asian Americans and the Pacific Islands. They have long enriched America’s history and ensured its future success. To recognize this group, an entire month is dedicated to celebrating them. We suggest trying out a few of the following to truly appreciate their contributions. Make a positive impact, and help stop Asian Hate with online sensitivity training.

  • Try origami
  • Explore AAPI history
  • Make your own bubble tea at home
  • Support a local AAPI business in your community

5/5 – Cinco de Mayo

This May diversity holiday is a favorite, but its history is often overlooked. Cinco de Mayo is a celebration of Mexican Heritage as it commemorates the date that the Mexican army defeated the French army. You’ll often see it celebrated with parties, parades, traditional Mexican foods, and mariachi music.

5/8: Buddha’s Birthday

May diversity dates include Buddha’s birthday, a significant day of celebration for Buddhists around the world. Prince Siddhartha Gautama is the founder of one of the most popular religions in the world. The festival Vesak celebrates his birth and marks his Enlightenment for some Buddhists.

5/17: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

May diversity and inclusion topics – the 17th celebrates the date chosen to honor the decision to remove homosexuality from the International Classifications of Diseases of the WHO in 1990. On this day, 132 countries coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights. You can celebrate by reading up on the terminology so you can talk about the issues confidently in the workplace.

5/19: Malcolm X’s Birthday

Happy Birthday to Malcolm X! In the 1960s, Malcolm X was a prominent civil rights leader and figure in the Nation of Islam. He was assassinated in 1965. His birthday is celebrated on May 19th, and it’s known as “Malcolm X Day.”

 Final Thoughts

Keep up to date with our 2022 Interfaith calendar for this year!

If following the calendar for each event or date becomes overwhelming to you, try to pick just one item from May’s multicultural calendar to learn about. Small and gradual learning about diversity can make all the difference!

Get a head start on the rest of the year with our 2022 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar.

April 2022 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of diversity events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar.

Here’s your April 2022 Diversity Calendar, a reminder that diversity isn’t an action…it’s a mindset. Our hope is that you can integrate the following holidays, holy days, and diversity events into your daily life and work to help everyone become more aware of diversity, equity, and inclusion. If you’ve never participated in an equality and diversity calendar previously, April is the perfect month to start. It’s Diversity Month! Let’s get started on what participation looks like.

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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Celebrate Diversity Month

Did you know that April is diversity month? It was officially designated as diversity month in 2004, and it strives to help people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other and their differences. To celebrate April diversity celebrations, consider new ways you can integrate diversity into your life. This could be considering implicit biases you have or how they impact the judgment of the people around you or asking questions to make connections with others. And help your next business go next level with online diversity and inclusion training!

 4/2: World Autism Awareness Day

In 2022, we’ll celebrate the 15th annual World Autism Awareness Day. The goal of this April diversity topic is to recognize people with autism and improve their lives both fully and meaningfully. If you know an autistic individual, you can work to understand them better by addressing them like any other person and taking time to listen to them.

4/2: Ramadan

Our April diversity calendar includes Islam’s most sacred month, which starts April 2. During this month, practicing Muslims will observe a strict fast from dawn to dusk. This “fast” includes abstaining from eating, drinking, chewing gum, smoking cigarettes, and engaging in sexual activity. You can understand the practice of Ramadan better by trying this for a day. Be sure to include the pre-fast meal (shur) and post-fast meal (iftar) that Muslims consume. To inspire inclusion of Muslims and others, discover the 5 benefits of diversity training in the workplace.

4/15: Passover

April multicultural holidays include Passover, a Jewish holiday that commemorates the Biblical story of Exodus. Exodus is when God freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Its main event is the seder, which is a festive meal where the Book of Exodus and related writings are recited in a set order.

4/17: Easter

Our April multicultural calendar includes Easter, the most significant Christian holy day that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus following his death. If you’re not Christian but want to celebrate this holiday in 2022, learn about the resurrection as told in the Bible, and have an Easter brunch with friends and family.

4/22: Earth Day

April diversity days include Earth Day, established in 1970 as an international day of celebration for the modern environmental movement, which 192 countries celebrate. We suggest selecting one thing you can do for the environment throughout the month of April to help contribute. Focus on your water consumption, waste, or go vegan! There’s so much you can do to save this planet that provides so much for you.

4/21-4/23: Gathering of Nations

April diversity month conclues with Gathering of Nations, a congregation of 500 Native American tribes. These tribes meet to celebrate their traditions and cultures each year in the largest event for North America’s tribes. This year, the event is returning to in-person but requires vaccination, a certified statement from a licensed physician, and a negative test 48 hours prior to entry each day.

Final Thoughts

And that concludes our April 2022 diversity calendar. Get a head start on next month with our May 2022 diversity calendar. Celebrating diversity days that are unfamiliar to you can be intimidating. However, don’t think of them as something that you have to do perfectly. They are simply an opportunity to engage with communities that you otherwise wouldn’t, and that in itself is a learning experience.

Keep up to date with our 2022 Interfaith calendar for this year. Get a head start on the rest of the year with our Diversity and Inclusion Calendar 2022

Inclusion Diversity Calendar

Diversity & Inclusion Calendar

2022 Diversity Calendar

January 2022

January 1, 2022 Baha’i : World Peace Day
January 1, 2022 Roman Catholic : Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
January 4, 2022 Roman Catholic : Elizabeth Ann B. Seton Feast Day
January 6, 2022 Christian : Epiphany
January 7, 2022 Coptic Orthodox Christian : Christmas
January 9, 2022 Sikh : Guru Gobind Singh’s Birthday
January 14, 2022 Eastern Orthodox Christian : New Year
January 14, 2022 Hindu : Makar Sankranti
January 14, 2022 Hindu : Pongal
January 16, 2022 Baha’i : World Religion Day
January 17, 2022 United States : Martin Luther King Jr. Day
January 17, 2022 Jewish : Tu Biswat*
January 19, 2022 Coptic Orthodox Christian : Epiphany
January 27, 2022 United Nations : International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust

February 2022

February 1, 2022 United States/Canada : Black History Month
February 1, 2022 Chinese: New Year
February 2, 2022 Christian : Candlemas
February 2, 2022 Pagan and Wiccan : Imbolc
February 5, 2022 Hindu : Vasant Panchami
February 15, 2022 Buddhist : Parinirvana / Nirvana Day
February 21, 2022 United States : Presidents’ Day
February 28, 2022 Hindu : Maha Shivaratri (Shiva’s Night)

March 2022

March 1, 2022 Christian : Shrove Tuesday (Mardi Gras)
March 1, 2022 “Islamic : Lailat al Miraj”
March 2, 2022 Christian : Ash Wednesday (beginning of Lent)
March 2, 2022 Baha’i : Baha’I Fast (Through 3/19)
March 7, 2022 Eastern Orthodox Christian : Beginning of Great Lent
March 8, 2022 International : International Women’s Day
March 17, 2022 Jewish : Purim (Feast of Lots)
March 17, 2022 Ireland : St. Patrick’s Day
March 18, 2022 Islamic : Mid-Sha’ban
March 18, 2022 Hindu : Holi
March 18, 2022 Sikh : Hola Mohalla
March 19, 2022 Roman Catholic : Feast of St. Joseph
March 20, 2022 Pagan and Wiccan : Ostara
March 20, 2022 “Baha’i : Naw Ruz (New Year) begins at sundown”
March 20, 2022 General : Vernal Equinox
March 21, 2022 United Nations : International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
March 25, 2022 Christian : The Annunciation
March 26, 2022 Zoroastrian : Khordad Sal

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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April 2022

April 2, 2022 Hindu : Ugadi
April 2, 2022 Hindu : Chaitra Navratri begins
April 3, 2022 Islamic : Ramadan (5/23)
April 6, 2022 United States : Tartan Day
April 7, 2022 United States : Days of Remembrance of the Victims of the Holocaust (8 days)
April 8, 2022 Buddhist : Buddha’s Birth
April 10, 2022 Christian : Palm Sunday
April 10, 2022 Hindu : Rama Navami (Birthday of Rama)
April 14, 2022 Christian : Maundy Thursday
April 14, 2022 Hindu : Vaisakhi (New Year)
April 14, 2022 Sikh : Vaisakhi
April 15, 2022 Christian : Good Friday
April 15, 2022 Jain : Mahavir Jayanti
April 16, 2022 Jewish : Passover (first day of 8-day observance)
April 16, 2022 Christian : Holy Saturday
April 17, 2022 Christian : Easter
April 18, 2022 Christian : Easter Monday
April 21, 2022 Baha’I : Festival of Ridvan
April 22, 2022 International : Earth Day
April 24, 2022 Roman Catholic : Feast of Divine Mercy
April 24, 2022 Coptic Orthodox Christian : Easter
April 28, 2022 Islamic : Laylat al-Qadr
April 30, 2022 Pagan and Wiccan : Beltaine begins at sundown

May 2022

May 1, 2022 International : May Day (Labor Day)
May 3, 2022 Islamic : Eid al-Fitr*
May 5, 2022 Mexican American : Cinco de Mayo
May 5, 2022 United States : National Day of Prayer
May 16, 2022 Buddhist : Vesak (Buddha Day)
May 17, 2022 Black American : Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka (1954)
May 19, 2022 Jewish : Lag BaOmer
May 21, 2022 International : World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
May 23, 2022 Baha’I : Declaration of the Bab*
May 29, 2022 Baha’I : Ascension of Baha’u’llah
May 30, 2022 United States : Memorial Day observed

June 2022 Diversity Calendar

June 1, 2022 LGBTQ+ Pride Month
June 1, 2022 Caribbean American Heritage Month
June 2, 2022 United States : Granting of Citizenship to Native Americans (1924)
June 2, 2022 Christian : Ascension Day
June 5, 2022 Jewish : Shavuot*
June 5, 2022 Christian : Pentecost
June 6, 2022 Christian : Whit Monday
June 12, 2022 Christian : Trinity Sunday
June 12, 2022 United States : Puerto Rican Day Parade
June 12, 2022 Baha’I : Race Unity Day
June 12, 2022 Coptic Orthodox Christian : Pentecost
June 13, 2022 Eastern Orthodox Christian : Monday of the Holy Spirit
June 14, 2022 United States : Flag Day
June 16, 2022 Roman Catholic : Feast of Corpus Christi
June 16, 2022 Sikh : Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Sahib
June 19, 2022 Eastern Orthodox Christian : All Saints Day
June 20, 2022 Black American : Juneteenth
June 21, 2022 General : Summer Solstice

July 2022

July 4, 2022 Indepedence Day : United States
July 8, 2022 Tisha B’Av* : Jewish
July 9, 2022 The Hajj* (7/29-8/2) : Islamic
July 10, 2022 Martyrdom of the Bab : Baha’i
July 18, 2022 Nelson Mandela International Day : United Nations
July 23, 2022 Birthday of Haile Selassie : Rastafarian
July 24, 2022 Pioneer Day : Mormon
July 26, 2022 Americans with Disabilities Act : People with Disabilities
July 31, 2022 Lughnasadh (begins at sundown) : Pagan and Wiccan
July 31, 2022 Islamic New Year* : Islamic

August 2022

August 1, 2022 Lughnasadh  : Pagan and Wiccan
August 8, 2022 Ashura* : Islamic
August 9, 2022 International Day of the World’s Indigenous People : United Nations
August 11, 2022 Raksha Bandhan : Hindu
August 12, 2022 International Youth Day : United Nations
August 15, 2022 Feast of the Assumption : Roman Catholic
August 19, 2022 Krishna Janmashtami : Hindu
August 24, 2022 Paryushana : Jain
August 26, 2022 Women’s Equality Day : United States
August 31, 2022 Ganesh Chaturthi : Hindu

September 2022

September 1, 2022 National Recovery Month : Theme Months
September 1, 2022 Hispanic Heritage Month (9/15 – 10/15) : Theme Months
September 10, 2022 Pitru Paksha begins : Hindu
September 11, 2022 Patriot Day : United States
September 11, 2022 Nayrouz (New Year) : Coptic Orthodox Christian
September 15, 2022 International Day of Democracy : United Nations
September 16, 2022 Hoshana Rabbah* : Jewish
September 17, 2022 Constitution Day : United States
September 17, 2022 Arbaeen* : Islamic
September 18, 2022 Simchat Torah* : Jewish
September 19, 2022 Anant Chaturdashi : Hindu
September 21, 2022 International Day of Peace : United Nations
September 23, 2022 Mabon (Autumnal Equinox)* : Pagan and Wiccan
September 23, 2022 Autumnal Equinox : General
September 26, 2022 Rosh Hashanah (New Year)* : Jewish
September 26, 2022 Navratri (10/17-10-26) : Hindu

October 2022

October 1, 2022 Global Diversity Awareness Month :
October 1, 2022 Breast Cancer Awareness Month :
October 1, 2022 National Disability Employment Awareness Month :
October 1, 2022 Italian American Heritage Month :
October 1, 2022 Polish American Heritage Month :
October 1, 2022 Durga Puja (10/22-10-26) : Hindu
October 5, 2022 Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) : Jewish
October 5, 2022 Dussehra : Hindu
October 6, 2022 German American Heritage Day : United States
October 8, 2022 Mawlid* : Islamic
October 10, 2022 Sukkot (10/3-10/9) : Jewish
October 10, 2022 World Mental Health Day : People with Disabilities
October 10, 2022 Thanksgiving Day : Canada
October 11, 2022 National Coming Out Day : LGBTQ+
October 11, 2022 International Day of the Girl Child : United Nations
October 13, 2022 Karva Chauth : Hindu
October 15, 2022 Blind Americans Equality Day : People with Disabilities
October 17, 2022 Shemini Atzeret* (10/10-11) : Jewish
October 20, 2022 Spirit Day : LGBTQ+
October 24, 2022 Diwali : Hindu
October 24, 2022 Bandi Chhor Divas : Sikh
October 25, 2022 New Year : Jain
October 28, 2022 Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples’ Day : United States
October 29, 2022 Gyan Panchami : Jain
October 31, 2022 Halloween : United States, Canada
October 31, 2022 Samhain begins : Pagan and Wiccan

November 2022

November 1, 2022 Movember :
November 1, 2022 National Diabetes Awareness Month :
November 1, 2022 Native American Heritage Month :
November 1, 2022 All Saints Day : Christian
November 1, 2022 Día de los Muertos : Mexico
November 2, 2022 All Souls Day : Christian
November 7, 2022 Birthday of the Bab : Baha’i
November 8, 2022 Election Day : United States
November 8, 2022 Guru Nanak Ji’s Birthday : Sikh
November 11, 2022 Veterans Day : United States
November 12, 2022 Birthday of Baha’u’llah : Baha’i
November 16, 2022 International Day for Tolerance : United Nations
November 16, 2022 Dutch American Heritage Day : United States
November 19, 2022 International Men’s Day :
November 20, 2022 Transgender Day of Remembrance : LGBTQ+
November 24, 2022 Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib : Sikh
November 24, 2022 Thanksgiving Day : United States
November 25, 2022 Hindu : Vikram Samvat (Lunar New Year)
November 25, 2022 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women : United Nations
November 25, 2022 Nativity Fast (11/25-1/6) : Coptic Orthodox Christian
November 26, 2022 The Day of the Covenant : Baha’i
November 27, 2022 Advent begins (through 12/24) : Christian
November 28, 2022 Nativity Fast (11/28-1/6) : Eastern Orthodox Christian
November 28, 2022 Ascension of Abdu’l-Baha : Baha’i
November 30, 2022 St. Andrew’s Day : Roman Catholic

December 2022

December 1, 2022 Rosa Parks Day (Ohio, Oregon) : Black American
December 1, 2022 World AIDS Day : International
December 3, 2022 International Day of Persons with Disabilities : United Nations
December 8, 2022 Bodhi Day (Buddha’s Enlightenment): Buddhist
December 8, 2022 Feast of the Immaculate Conception : Roman Catholic
December 8, 2022 Buddhist : Bodhi Day (Buddha’s Enlightenment)
December 10, 2022 International Human Rights Day : United Nations
December 16, 2022 Las Posadas (12/16-12/24) : Hispanic
December 18, 2022 Hanukkah* (12/11-12/18) : Jewish
December 20, 2022 International Human Solidarity Day : United Nations
December 21, 2022 Yule* : Pagan/Wiccan
December 22, 2022 Solstice : General
December 25, 2022 Christmas : Christian
December 26, 2022 St. Stephen’s Day : Roman Catholic
December 26, 2022 Kwanzaa (12/26 – 1/1) : Black American
Pagan and Wiccan : Litha*
Eid al-Adha* : Islamic
Joseph Smith (1805-1844) : Mormon

March 2022 Diversity Calendar

Are you ready to welcome spring? Depending on where you live, you may have great weather headed your way this month, or you may have a month or two left to wait. Regardless, March ushers in religious celebrations and festivals as winter transitions to spring. We’ll discuss one below along with numerous other March diversity events.

For more diversity topics, see our 2022 Diversity Calendar.

Note: below is a small sampling of diversity events. To enjoy all 100+ events, inclusion tips and more, see our Diversity Calendar Suite

 Women’s History Month

 “Here’s to strong women. May we be them. May we know them. May we raise them.”

It’s women’s history month, and it’s intended to honor the vital role of women in American history. We recommend choosing a few women to learn more about through the month. Here are some suggestions: Dorothea Dix, Claudia Jones, Laura Cornelius Kellogg, Mary Tape, and Jane Cooke Wright.

Online Diversity Calendar™ Easy Awareness & Inclusion: 365
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3/2: Ash Wednesday

 This is a Christian day of fasting and prayer that begins the season of Lent. For Catholics, Ash Wednesday often means going to mass and having ashes drawn in a cross upon your forehead. For others, it may just mean a day of reflection and fasting.

 3/8: International Women’s Day

 Another day for women! This day is intended to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. On this day, you may donate to a women’s charity, recognize a local woman-owned company, or reach out to a woman in your life who has inspired you. You can create a more inclusive workplace for women and others with online diversity training.

3/10: Harriet Tubman’s Birthday

 You likely know Harriet Tubman as the former slave who saved countless others in the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a network of people (both African American and white) who offered shelter and aid to escaped enslaved people from the South. It’s reported that Harriet Tubman saved around 70 people. Happy Birthday, Harriet!

 3/17: St. Patrick’s Day

 This is the feast day and death day of Saint Patrick, a Catholic saint. His feast day is now both a cultural and religious celebration held around the world. How you choose to celebrate is up to you! Some people like to bake festive desserts while others like to raise a toast.

 3/19: Holi

 Holi is a Hindu holiday that celebrates the winter harvest as well as the onset of spring. If you live in a climate that you can enjoy the outdoors, this is a great way to do so. Holi is known as the “Festival of Colors.” Often, family and friends will gather in their backyards, neighborhoods, and driveways with brightly colored powers to throw and smear on their faces.

 3/21: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

 On March 21, 1960, the police killed 69 people in South Africa when they opened fire on a peaceful demonstration. As a call to end racial discrimination, the UN created this day. Reflect on your own privilege and examine your own biases on this day as a way to bring the world closer together!

 Final thoughts

And that concludes our March 2022 Diversity Calendar, and we hope it’s a way for you to engage with communities you wouldn’t otherwise.

Enjoy a preview on next month with our April 2022 Diversity Calendar. Or get a head start on the rest of the year with our Diversity and Inclusion Calendar 2022.

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