Below you’ll find a small sampling of our December diversity events – to see all 100+ events this year, see our interactive online DEI Calendar
December is here! It’s a long-awaited month by many because it signals upcoming time off. However, make sure you switch up the office decorations from the typical “Merry Christmas” and “Happy New Year” signs. There are several other diversity days you can celebrate.
December 1: World AIDS Day
This day helps raise awareness for HIV/AIDs. Hold a fundraiser in your office to help fight the HIV epidemic and raise money to find a cure. You can also pass out red ribbons. These are the universal symbol of support for those living with HIV/AIDs. And ensure your employees are sensitive and respectful by exploring the 5 types of diversity training in the workplace.
December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
All people, regardless of ability, deserve to be treated with dignity and given rights. The United Nations created the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992 to help people with disabilities participate without any barriers. Spend this day evaluating your workplace. Is it truly accessible to all? Ask your staff and see if they have any feedback they can provide on the topic!
December 10: International Human Rights Day (United Nations)
The UN established International Human Rights Day in 1948 following World War II. It uses the United States’ Bill of Rights as a model. To observe this December diversity day, you can read the full Universal Declaration of Human Rights online.
December 16 to December 24: Las Posadas
The religious festival of Las Posadas is primarily celebrated in Latin American countries, Mexico, and Spain. Some Hispanics in the United States also celebrate this festival. The festival is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph traveling to various homes in the community that are designated as “inns.” After the reenactment, there is a celebration.
December 18 to December 26: Hanukkah
This is an 8-day, 8-night celebration in the Jewish faith honoring the triumph of their ancestors over the Syrian Greeks. To see the “Festival of Lights” observed, ask to join in a night of celebrations with a Jewish friend’s family.
Discover more interfaith events with our list of key religious holidays 2023
December 21: Winter Solstice/Yule
The Winter Solstice is known as Yule to those practicing the Pagan and Wiccan faiths. The day marks the longest night of the year and the return of the sun. You can celebrate Yule by lighting a Yule log, making an evergreen wreath, having a nature-based treat, and decluttering your space.
December 25: Christmas
This is one of the most important Christian holidays that celebrates the birth of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is also of cultural importance to those who do not actively practice the Christian faith.
December 26: Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an 8-day celebration of life that is inspired by the African harvest celebrations. The holiday was created by an American professor of African studies, activist, and author, Maulana Karenga. It has been celebrated since the 1960s.
Final Thoughts
As the year comes to an end, try to celebrate two or three new holidays in addition to the ones typical to your household. This can encourage learning about other backgrounds and open your mind to other cultures. Who knows — these diversity days may become part of your yearly traditions
Which diversity days do you want to learn more about next year? Get a head start on next year with our Diversity and Calendar 2023

