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Category: Diversity Calendar

May 2021 Diversity Calendar

Our May 2021 diversity calendar celebrates a colorful variety of different groups in the United States.

From the Jewish community to older Americans to Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, our May multicultural calendar provides many opportunities for inclusion. Keep reading to discover more about May diversity events and how you can celebrate them in your workplace.

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

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Mental Health Awareness Month

Our May diversity month includes Mental Health Awareness Month. The observances raises awareness of people living with mental or behavioral issues, and seeks to reduce the stigma they experience. To honor it, get informed about mental health, develop support networks, and reach out to associates you might be struggling. Discover more about mental health and diversity.

Older Americans Month

Seniors are also recognized during our May diversity events. The Administration for Community Living leads the observance of Older Americans Month, which celebrates the accomplishments of older citizens. This year’s theme is “Communities of Strength” as older adults have built resilience and strength throughout their lives. If you want to celebrate, connect with or share a meal (COVID-19 permitting) with some older associates.

Jewish American Heritage Month

Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is among our May diversity celebrations. This annual recognition honors American Jews and their valuable contributions to society. To celebrate this holiday this year, make a new Jewish food, go on a virtual museum tour, or learn a new Hebrew word. For Jewish and other religious observances, see our 2021 Interfaith Calendar.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Our May multicultural calendar pays tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America’s history and ensured its future success. To celebrate this month, give a shout out to this group in your workplace. And to support the Stop Asian Hate movement, you can create a more inclusive workplace with our microaggressions training online.

5/5: Cinco de Mayo

You’ve likely heard of this holiday before…but do you know what it means? May multicultural holidays include Cinco de Mayo. It’s a celebration of Mexican heritage, and commemorates the date of the Mexican army’s defeat of the French army. It is primarily observed by Mexican Americans, and it may be celebrated by parades, parties, mariachi music, or traditional Mexican foods.

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

May diversity topics include this event, which aims to coordinate international efforts to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ rights. It is commemorated in more than 132 countries. The date was chosen to honor the decision to remove homosexuality from the International Classifications of Diseases of the WHO in 1990. Help reduce LGBTQ+ discrimination and increase inclusion with our LGBT sensitivity training.

5/19: Birthday of Malcolm X

Malcolm X concludes our May diversity days. He was a civil rights leader and prominent figure in the Nation of Islam. He articulated concepts of race pride and Black nationalism in the early 1960s. May 19th is his birthday and an American commemorative event (“Malcolm X Day”).

Final thoughts

That concludes our May 2021 diversity calendar, which will keep inclusion at the forefront of your mind all month. It’s important to not only engage with these topics, but to change how you and your co-workers view and interact with others.

Preview next month with our June 2021 Diversity Calendar. Or get a head start on the rest of the year with our 2021 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar.

April 2021 Diversity Calendar

Our April multicultural calendar brings together a diverse group of days that can help your inclusion efforts blossom this spring. Below you’ll discover a variety of must-know diversity topics, celebrations, and multicultural holidays.

Note: below is a small sampling of diversity events. To enjoy all 100+ events, inclusion tips and more, see our diversity awareness calendar suite

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Celebrate Diversity Month

April diversity month is our theme for 2021. Established in 2004, it’s designated as a time to help diverse people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other. Throughout this month, you’ll have the opportunity to gain a greater appreciation for the diversity that surrounds you. Take time to recognize the diversity in your workplace, school, neighborhood or home. One of the ways you can do this is by supporting minority-owned businesses. Or boost inclusion in your workplace by exploring diverse types of diversity training in the workplace.

4/2: World Autism Awareness Day

In 2021, the international community will celebrate the 14th annual World Autism Awareness Day. This April diversity day seeks to recognize people with autism and improve their lives so they can live fully and meaningfully. On this day and throughout the month, educational activities will take place to increase the understanding and acceptance of people with autism. The goal is fostering worldwide support and inspiring a more inclusive world.

4/4: Easter

April diversity events include this major religious holy day. Also called Resurrection Sunday, Easter is a festival and holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. It’s one of the two most important holy days in Christianity, the world’s #1 most-practiced religion. For more religious holidays, see our 2021 Interfaith Calendar.

4/8: Buddha’s Birth

Our April multicultural calendar includes the Buddha’s birthday. It’s a holiday for both celebration and reflection for Buddhists. Prince Siddhartha Gautama was first royalty and later became a spiritual leader. He launched Buddhism, which remains one of the most popular religions today. The exact date of Buddha’s birth depends on the calendar you’re looking at. However, the Gregorian calendar always places Buddha’s birth on April 8.

4/12: Ramadan

April multicultural holidays include the first day of Islam’s most sacred month. During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to observe a strict fast from dawn until dusk, which means they’re not allowed to eat, drink, chew gum, smoke cigarettes, or engage in sexual activity. Often, Muslims will eat both a pre-fast meal (shur) and a post-fast meal (iftar) with a snack in between. Help create a more respectful workplace for Muslims and others with online interactive harassment training for employees

4/22: Earth Day

April diversity topics include our home, the Earth! Every year on this day, 192 countries celebrate the modern environmental movement. Earth Day was first established in 1970, and that means we’ve just passed more than 50 years of environmental advocacy. Today, pick one thing that you can do for the environment: go pick up litter in your community, conserve water, or stop consuming meat/dairy for the day.

4/23-24: Gathering of Nations

The Gathering of Nations is considered North America’s biggest “pow wow” for more than 500 Native American tribes. Each year, these tribes meet to celebrate their traditions and cultures. Due to COVID-19, this year’s event will be virtual. You can find out more about the virtual live-streamed event here.

Final thoughts

That concludes our April 2021 Diversity Calendar, an opportunity to engage with diverse communities. Mark these April multicultural holidays on your calendar and take action to remind yourself of the importance of diversity.

Explore next month with our May 2021 Diversity Calendar. Or get a ahead start on the rest of the year, with our 2021 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar

March 2021 Diversity Calendar

As they say, March comes in like a lion, out like a lamb. While it frequently starts with the cold of winter, it often ends with the promise of spring. And our March 2021 Diversity Calendar includes holidays that promise greater inclusion – many of them to empower and uplift the women in your life!

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

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Women’s History Month

Our March diversity month feature. Since 1995, March has been designated Women’s History Month by annual presidential proclamations. These proclamations aim to celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States. Some of these women include Abigail Adams, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth and Rosa Parks. Just like Black History Month, Women’s History Month grew out of weeklong celebrations dedicated to contributions to culture, history and society. Help foster more gender equality in the workplace with our online diversity training.

3/8: International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day highlights our key March diversity topic. It’s a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The theme for 2021 is “Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a COVID-19 World.” With so much of the world impacted by the global pandemic, this day will focus on the tremendous efforts by women around reshaping a more equal future as society recovers.

3/10: Celebration of Harriet Tubman’s Life

Our March diversity days continue the theme of strong women. March 10 celebrates Harriet Tubman, an American abolitionist and political activist. She’s best known for her connection and contribution to the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses established in the U.S. during the early to mid-19th century. The Underground Railroad was used by enslaved African Americans to escape into both free states and Canada. After escaping herself, Tubman went on 13 missions to rescue approximately 70 enslaved people. She later became a scout and spy for the Union Army during the Civil War. On March 10, 1913, Harriett Tubman died, leaving behind a great legacy.

3/17: St. Patrick’s Day

When you think of March diversity celebrations, many think of St. Patrick’s Day. This day marks the birthday of an Irish saint who brought Christianity to the Emerald Isle. To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, the Irish will wear green attire or shamrocks and join in public parades or festivals.

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

Our March diversity events include this annual commemoration. It marks the anniversary of police opening fire and killing 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid laws in Sharpeville, South Africa on March 21, 1960. The commemoration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966, calling for the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination. One way you can join the movement today is confronting your own privilege. You can also be an advocate by calling out any racist “jokes” or statements you may hear – even if they are said by friends or loved ones.

3/27: Passover begins

Our March multicultural holidays include Passover. It’s a major Jewish holiday that marks the Exodus of the Children of Israel from Egyptian slavery. It begins on the 15th day of the month of Nisan, which typically falls in March or April of the Gregorian calendar. It begins the previous evening with a seder (meal). It’s often celebrated with great ceremony and symbolism as the traditional foods are eaten and recitations are performed.

3/28: Holi

Our March multicultural calendar concludes with Holi. Also known as the festival of colors, this Hindu festival has been enjoyed since ancient times to celebrate the coming of spring. Like New Years in the Western world, the Holi Festival is seen as a way for people to release all their inhibitions and start fresh. During the Holi festivals, the gods turn a blind eye, and everyone can let loose. People tend to dance, party, and toss aside cultural norms. A bonfire is also lit to symbolically burn away all the bad, and provide a light for a new future.

That concludes our March 2021 Diversity Calendar, a time to celebrate women! Pick out a book to read on a woman hero of yours and discover the challenges she faced throughout her lifetime. And everyone can focus on the women in their lives and seek to uplift them and their future. Get a head start on next month, with our April 2021 Diversity Calendar. And explore the rest of the year, with our exclusive 2021 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar

February 2021 Diversity Calendar

Presenting our multicultural calendar for February. This month holds quite a few nationally recognized days of celebration for a variety of groups. Below are 7 key events from our February 2021 Diversity Calendar.

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

Black History Month

February diversity month feature! There’s not a day in February you shouldn’t celebrate Black History Month! The first “Negro Week” was sponsored by the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915. It was held in February over the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, the week was expanded to a full month by President Ford. Each president has recognized February as Black History Month since. Create greater racial equality in your organization with diversity training in the workplace.

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2/11: Birthday of Tammy Baldwin

Our February diversity celebrations include Tammy Baldwin, the first openly LGBT legislator elected to U.S. Congress. She is currently serving as the junior United States Senator from Wisconsin (and has been as of January 2013). In addition to Baldwin, there are currently 10 other incumbent LGBTQ members of Congress. Krysten Sinema joins Baldwin in the Senate, and there are nine other representatives in House. In a time when representation matters, Baldwin has opened the door for many to follow her. Help build more LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace with our online diversity training.

2/12: Chinese New Year

February multicultural holidays include Chinese New Year. This three-day festival celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunar calendar. This year marks the Year of the Ox. The Lunar New Year is associated with myths and customs. Often, Chinese families will gather for an annual reunion dinner, clean their houses to sweep away misfortune, decorate their homes with special red paper-cuts and couplets, light firecrackers, and give away money in red paper envelopes.

2/14: Frederick Douglass

February diversity days include the birthday of Frederick Douglass (1817-1895). This escaped slave turned prominent activist, author and public speaker. He became a leader in the abolitionist movement and helped to free slaves before and during the Civil War. He was a firm believer in the equality of all people – white, Black, female, Native American, Chinese, etc. While his birthday is unknown, it is presumed to be on February 14, and that is why he is celebrated on this day.

2/15: Parinirvana

Nirvana Day is a key February diversity event. This annual Buddhist festival remembers the death of the Buddha when he reached Nirvana at the age of 80 in 483 BC. Nirvana is believed to be the end of the cycle of death and rebirth. The day is a time to reflect on one’s own future death and the death of loved ones.

2/15: Birthday of Susan B. Anthony

Women’s rights are a key February diversity topic. This day celebrates the birthday of one of the most respected individuals in the women’s suffrage movement. Anthony was a historic leader of women’s rights and worked to empower women to cast a ballot and play an active part in our government today. To celebrate, check on your voter’s registration status and make sure you’re registered for any upcoming elections.

2/17: Ash Wednesday

Our February multicultural holidays conclude with Ash Wednesday, an important day in the Christian community that begins the Easter season. It lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays) of a “Lenten” period and ends with Easter. You’ll often hear Christians refer to the time between Ash Wednesday and Easter as “Lent.” Petitioning and fasting are common during this time, but regardless of your belief system, you can recognize this day by doing a random act of kindness for someone else.

That’s our February 2021 diversity calendar! Always be thinking of ways that you can do and act on these days instead of just putting them on your calendar. If you can make diversity a mindset, then you can help make the world a better place. Get a head start on next month with our March 2021 Diversity Calendar, and the rest of the year with our 2021 Diversity Calendar.

2021 Diversity Calendar

Diversity and Inclusion Calendar, Cultural Events Calendar

In the Black Lives Matter era, we have learned that racism, discrimination and harassment can be very costly indeed – or worse. Many have discovered what diversity professionals have known all along: it’s essential to practice inclusion, everywhere.

A Harvard University report concluded that the key to effective diversity programs is daily inclusion. Being mindful of diverse holidays – and opportunities for inclusion – is the key to create workplaces, schools and communities where are people feel included, every day.

To help you, here’s our year-long Diversity Calendar for 2021, a list of religious holidays with monthly diversity themes, religious and ethnic holidays, and more.

Note: below is just a small sampling of 2021 diversity events. To enjoy all 1,300+ inclusion events and religious holy days, see our Diversity Calendar Suite

January 2021 Diversity Calendar

1/1 – Black American: Emancipation Proclamation – President Abraham Lincoln declared all slaves to be free
1/4 – People with Disabilities: Louis Braille – birthday of the blind pioneer, who invented the most widely-used form of writing for the blind
1/6 – Christian: Epiphany – commemorates the arrival of the three kings, with gifts for the baby Jesus
1/14 – Hindu: Makar Sankranti or Maghi – celebrates the harvest
1/20 – Black American: Martin Luther King Jr. Day – national holiday celebrating the birthday of this social justice leader
1/27 – United Nations: International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust
1/29 – Black American: Oprah Winfrey – the highly influential media billionaire was born on this day

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Multicultural Calendar for February

Black History Month
2/11 – LGBTQ+: Tammy Baldwin – birthday of first openly LGBTQ+ Senator and Congressperson
2/12 – Chinese New Year – three-day festivity, beginning the Year of the Ox
2/14 – Black American: Frederick Douglass (1817-1895) – birthday of renowned abolitionist, who helped free the slaves
2/15 – Buddhist: Parinirvana or Nirvana Day – remembers Buddha’s passing in 483 BC and his final nirvana
2/15 – Women: Susan B. Anthony – birthday of advocate for women’s right, who helped women gain the right to vote
2/17 – Christian: Ash Wednesday – the beginning of Lent, a period of fasting for 40 days until Easter Sunday

Discover more with our February 2021 Diversity Calendar

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March 2021 Ethnic Holidays

Women’s History Month – honors our nation’s women and their accomplishments
3/8 – Women: International Women’s Day – began in 1910 to advocate for greater women’s rights, particularly the right to vote
3/10 – Black American: Harriet Tubman – leader of the Underground Railroad, she helped slaves escape to freedom
3/17 – Irish: St Patrick’s Day – marks the birthday of this Irish saint, who brought Christianity to the Emerald Isle
3/21 – United Nations: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
3/27 – Jewish: Passover – start of holiday, commemorating the freeing of Israeli slaves in Egypt
3/28 – Hindu: Holi – celebrates the winter harvest, and the coming of spring

For more religious holidays, see our 2021 Interfaith Calendar.

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April Diversity Month

Celebrate Diversity Month – launched in 2004, seeks to help diverse people gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other
4/2 – People with Disabilities: World Autism Awareness Day – seeks to improve the lives of people with the disorder so they can lead full and meaningful lives
4/4 – Christian: Easter – a key holy day in the #1 most-practiced faith, it honors the resurrection of Jesus
4/8 – Buddhist: Buddha’s Birth – royalty who became a spiritual leader and launched Buddhism, one of the most popular religions
4/12 – Islamic: Ramadan – first day of Islam’s most sacred month, during which Muslims are not allowed to eat or drink from dawn until dusk
4/22 – International: Earth Day – celebrated internationally in more than 192 countries
4/22-24 – Native American: Gathering of Nations – more than 500 Native American tribes meet to celebrate their traditions and cultures

Discover more with our April 2021 Diversity Calendar

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Multicultural Holidays Calendar for May

Mental Health Awareness Month – raises awareness of people with mental or behavioral health issues, and seeks to reduce their stigma
Older Americans Month – celebrates the accomplishments of older citizens
Jewish American Heritage Month – recognizes the history of American Jews, and their valuable contributions to society
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
5/5 – Mexican American: Cinco de Mayo – commemorates Mexico’s defeat of the French army, observed primarily by Mexican Americans
5/17 – LGBTQ+: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia – raises awareness of LGBT rights, commemorated in more 132 countries
5/19 – Black American/Muslim: Malcolm X – birthday of the civil rights leader

Find out more with our May 2021 Diversity Calendar

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June Multicultural Calendar

LGBT Pride Month
Caribbean American Heritage Month – recognizes the importance of Caribbeans in the history and culture of the United States.
6/2 – Native Americans: Indian Citizenship Act of 1924
6/12 – Black American: Loving Day – anniversary of the Supreme Court decision, ending bans on interracial marriage
6/14 – Puerto Rican: Puerto Rican Day Parade – festivities are planned across the country, to celebrate Puerto Ricans’ accomplishments and contributions
6/19 – Black American: Juneteenth – commentates the liberation of slaves in Texas, and celebrated nationwide
6/27 – People With Disabilities: Helen Keller – birthday of the pioneer in advocating for those with disabilities

Explore more with our June 2021 Diversity Calendar

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July 2021 Diversity Holidays Calendar

7/2 – Black American: Thurgood Marshall – birthday of the civil rights leader and first Black Supreme Court justice
7/6 – Tibetan: 14th Dalai Lama – marks the birth of Tibet’s leader in exile, and Nobel Peace Prize recipient
7/6 – Women, Mexican: Frida Kahlo – birthday of painter, one of the best-known artists of the 20th century
7/17 – Islamic: The Hajj – annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, required by all able Muslims at least once in their lifetime
7/18 – South African: Nelson Mandela – birthday of civil rights leader, and South Africa’s first black president
7/24 – Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Pioneer Day – official holiday celebrated in Utah, marking the arrival of founder Brigham Young in the Salt Lake area
7/26 – Americans with Disabilities Act – outlawed discrimination against people with disabilities

Find out more with our July 2021 Diversity Calendar

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August Ethnic Calendar

8/4 – Black American: Barack Obama – first Black President of the United States
8/9 – United Nations: International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, celebrates unique cultures of indigenous peoples worldwide
8/10 – Islamic: Al-Hijri (New Year) – begins the prior evening
8/15 – Roman Catholic: Feast of the Assumption – celebrating the belief of the entry into heaven of the Virgin Mary
8/24 – People with Disabilities: Marlee Matlin – birthday of the only hearing-impaired actor to win the Oscar for best actor/actress
8/26 – Women’s Equality Day – commemorates US women gaining the right to vote
8/30 – Hindu: Janmashtami (Birth of Lord Krishna) – one of the great Hindu festivals, celebrating popular deity

Discover more with our August 2021 Diversity Calendar

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September 2021 Multicultural Holidays

National Hispanic Heritage Month (9/15 to 10/15)
National Recovery Month – increases awareness of substance abuse disorders and celebrates recovery
9/6-9/9 Jewish: Rosh Hashanah – the Jewish New Year, a time for reflecting on the past year, and the year to come
9/10 Hindu: Ganesh Chaturthi – festivities in praise of this elephant-headed deity
9/22 Autumnal Equinox – a time for various religious observances worldwide
9/20 Women: HeForShe – promotes gender equality, initiated by the United Nations

Learn more with our September 2021 Diversity Calendar

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October Diversity Holidays

Global Diversity Awareness Month – promotes knowledge of and respect for different cultures
National Disability Employment Awareness Month – advocates for people with disabilities, and their full inclusion in the workforce
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Polish-American Heritage Month
10/10 – People with Disabilities: World Mental Health Day – promotes mental health education and awareness, and advocacy against social stigma
10/11 – United States: Indigenous Peoples’ Day – celebrates the indigenous peoples of North America
10/21 – LGBTQ+: Spirit Day – observers wear purple to support LGBTQ youth and prevent bullying

Learn more with our October 2021 Diversity Calendar

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November 2021 Multicultural Holidays

Native American Heritage Month
Movember- raises awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men’s suicide
10/31-11/2 – All Saints Day/All Souls Day/Día de los Muertos – Christian holidays, and the Mexican/Aztec descendent thereof
11/4 – Hindu: Diwali – a key Hindu celebration, in praise of diverse deities
11/16 – United Nations: International Day for Tolerance – promotes respect for diverse religions, languages, cultures, and ethnicities
11/16 – Dutch American Heritage Day
11/20 – LGBTQ+: Transgender Day of Remembrance – memorialize those murdered as a result of transphobia
11/28 – 12/6 – Jewish: Hanukkah – honors the Jewish triumph over Syrian Greeks and Jewish independence

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2021 Diversity Calendar for December

12/1 – World AIDS Day – increase education and awareness of AIDS
12/3 – United Nations: International Day of Persons with Disabilities – promotes the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities
12/10 – United Nations – International Human Rights Day
12/16-12/24 – Mexico: Las Posadas – commemorates events associated with the birth of Jesus
12/21 – Winter Solstice/Yule – the Pagan and Wiccan winter sabbat
12/25 – Christian: Christmas – celebrates the birth of Jesus, the Christian messiah
12/26 – Black: Kwanzaa (12/26-1/1) – inspired by African harvest celebrations

We hope you’ve found our year-long diversity calendar fun and informative. To find out more, see our 2021 Interfaith Calendar. To discover more diversity events, inclusion tips and more, see our Diversity Calendar Suite.

December 2020 Diversity Calendar

Do you look forward to December all year? Most people refer to the “holidays coming up” and instantly think of December. With our December 2020 diversity calendar, you’ll discover some of the colorful events to celebrate in December.

Below is a sampling of this month’s diversity events. To enjoy over 100+ inclusion events and observances, discover our  Diversity Calendar suite

December 1: World AIDS Day

December diversity events include World AIDS Day, which aims to raise both awareness and money to help fight HIV. It began in 1988 to encourage political leaders to keep their commitment to achieving universal access to HIV/AIDs prevention, treatment, care, and support by the year 2010. As of 2012, the multi-year theme for this day of observance is “Getting to Zero,” with a new goal to get new HIV infections to zero. Build inclusion of LGBTQ+ and other diversity groups with online diversity training.

 

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December 10-18: Hanukkah

December diversity month includes Hanukkah, an eight-day Jewish festival. It commemorates the Jewish victory over Syrian Greeks in 165 B.C.E., which restored Jewish independence. The festival is observed for eight nights and days and may begin at any time in late November to late December. Typically, a menorah is used during this celebration to note the days. Build respect for religious diversity with diversity training in the workplace.

December 12: Birthday of Frank Sinatra

Our December diversity days include a Happy Birthday to Frank Sinatra! Sinatra lived from 1915 to 1998, and is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential musical artists of the 20th century. He has sold more than 150 million records worldwide during a career lasting half a century.

December 12: Fiesta de Guadalupe Feast

This December multicultural holiday honors Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico’s patron saint. Each December 12th, the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated as an important holiday in Mexico. It commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary (mother of God) to a Mexican peasant named Juan Diego in 1531.

December 21: Yule

December diversity topics include Yule, a Pagan holiday celebrating the Winter Solstice. One of the oldest winter celebrations in the world, it begins at sundown and ends on January 1st. The holiday itself revolves around thanking the gods and goddesses for your blessings, as well as the change of seasons.

December 25: Christmas

December diversity celebrations include Christmas. Celebrated on the 25th every December, this Christian holiday marks the birth of the savior Jesus Christ. Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. The name Christmas comes from the Mass of Christ, a service where Christians remember that Jesus died for their sins and was resurrected.

Christmas is considered a day of joy where Jesus was born a baby in the humble setting of a manger. It’s often celebrated with gifts because of the three wise men that presented Jesus with gifts (gold, frankincense, and myrrh) after his birth.

December 26 – January 1: Kwanzaa

Our December multicultural calendar concludes with Kwanzaa. It’s an annual celebration of Africa-American culture and a tribute to African festivals of harvest. The holiday was created after the Watts Riots in 1966. Its goal was to give Black people an alternative holiday to celebrate themselves and their culture. It celebrates seven different principles of African Heritage, and families will decorate their households with art, eat fresh fruits, and wear cultural pieces.

Final thoughts

Thus concludes our December 2020 diversity calendar. December is widely known as a month of celebration. By understanding the holiday celebrate by others, you’ll create a world of awareness and inclusion. And get a head start on 2021, with our 2021 Diversity Calendar

November 2020 Diversity Calendar

Please see our November 2021 Diversity Calendar,
for the most current dates

Below you’ll see a sampling of upcoming diversity holidays. To discover more than 100+ celebrations and religious observances, enjoy our Diversity Calendar suite

Our November multicultural calendar gives you the chance to engage in issues related to the LGBTQ+, international, religious, Native American and Black communities. With our November 2020 Diversity Calendar, you can be more aware and inclusive.

Native American Heritage Month

Our November diversity month theme is Native American Heritage Month. It was established in 1990 by President George H.W. Bush, who approved a joint resolution designating the celebration. It’s the best time of the year to note the important contributions of Native Americans, and the unique challenges they’ve faced in the past and present. Build inclusion of Native Americans and others with diversity training in the workplace.

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11/1: Birthday of Tim Cook

November diversity events include the birthday of Tim Cook, CEO of Apple. In 2014, Cook revealed in Bloomberg Businessweek that he identifies as gay. He wrote that – while he never denied his sexuality – he had never openly acknowledged it. Cook’s coming out made him the first openly gay CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Be more inclusive of LGBTQ+ and others with our online diversity training.

10/31 – 11/2: Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)

Perhaps the most colorful of November multicultural holidays is Día de los Muertos. This Mexican holiday celebrates both life and death. It’s rooted in two traditions: the Christian observance of All Saints and All Souls Day, as well as two Aztec festivals of souls of the dead. It includes vibrant costumes and tasty dishes.

11/14/2020: Diwali

Diwali is a Hindu holiday celebrated by millions of Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains worldwide. It’s a five-day festival of lights that may coincide with harvest and new year celebrations. Diwali celebrates different gods and goddesses, highlighting the triumph of good over evil, and light over darkness.

11/16: Dutch American Heritage Day

November diversity celebrations include a celebration of Dutch American heritage. The United States and the Netherlands have a longstanding friendship, commemorated on November 16th each year. This holiday dates back to November 16, 1776, when the Netherlands was one of the first countries to recognize the United States as a sovereign nation. As a result, Congress declared a national holiday!

11/20: Transgender Day of Remembrance

November diversity topics feature this commemoration. Established in 1999 , it honors all transgender people who have lost their lives in anti-transgender violence. The day is a vigil to honor the memory of transgender woman Rita Hester. You can participate by attending and/or organizing a vigil on November 20 to honor those lost to transgender violence. Help foster respect in your workplace with our Online Harassment Prevention Training

11/30: Birthday of Shirley Chisholm

Our November diversity days conclude with a Happy Birthday to Shirley Chisholm! In 1968, she became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress. She represented New York’s 12th congressional district. In 1972, she was the first Black candidate for a majority party’s nomination for the president of the United States, as well as the first woman to run for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination.

Final thoughts

That concludes our November 2020 Diversity Calendar. How will you confront racial prejudices or cultural misunderstandings this month? Now is the best time to be more aware and inclusive, and advocate for equality and justice for all. Get a head start on next month with our December 2020 Diversity Calendar. Or check out the entire year, with our 2020 Diversity Calendar.

October 2020 Diversity Calendar

Following is a small selection of this month’s diversity events. To enjoy all 100+ events and religious holidays, view our Diversity Calendar suite

October ushers in fall weather and Halloween. It’s also full of diversity holidays that you can celebrate as a community. Our October 2020 Diversity Calendar lists 7 key events this month:

Global Diversity Awareness Month

Our October multicultural calendar includes this celebration, designed to increase awareness and acceptance of diverse cultures. As the world becomes increasingly diverse, cultures and customs need to join together. And this month help your employees the tools they need for working with cultures, with our online diversity training.

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National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Our October diversity topics include National Disability Employment Awareness, promoting awareness of employment for people with disabilities. This month dates back to 1945 when Congress declared the first week of October “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” It has since been expanded to a full month, aiming to inspire full integration of people with disabilities into the workplace.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Its goal is to increase awareness of the disease and get women the help they need. You can take part in Breast Cancer Awareness Month by visiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation and downloading their free Dense Breast Q&A Guide, making a one-time (or monthly!) gift, or hosting a fundraiser to benefit the NBCF.

National Italian American Heritage Month

This October diversity month honors the more than 26 million Italian-Americans living in the United States. As the seventh-largest ethnic group, this month celebrates the unique cultural contributions they have made to the country. To celebrate, try making a few new Italian dishes you’ve never tried before.

October 6: German American Heritage Day

October diversity events include German-American Day, first proclaimed by President Reagan in 1983. This date marked the 300th anniversary of the founding of Germantown. While historical research has shown that nearly all of the first thirteen Quaker and Mennonite families that immigrated were Dutch (instead of German), this day has continued to be observed with German-themed activities.

October 6: Birthday of Fannie Lou Hamer

October diversity days include the birthday of Fannie Lou Hamer, a grass-roots civil rights activist in the 1950s and 1960s. She was one of the first Black Americans to register to vote after working hard in Mississippi for voting rights. She ran for Congress in 1964 – although unsuccessfully. On October 6, we celebrate Fannie as an activist who recognized that America’s vision of democracy was in great need of progress.

October 29, 2020: Mawlid

October multicultural holidays include Mawlid, an Islamic holiday celebrating the birth of prophet Muhammad. It was declared an official holiday by the Ottomans in 1588, and later approved by most denominations of Islam as the commemoration of Muhammad’s birthday. Today the date is recognized as a national holiday in most Muslim-majority countries.

Final thoughts

And thus concludes our October 2020 diversity celebrations! Get a head start on next month, with our November 2020 Diversity Calendar. And to discover more awesome cultures and holidays, enjoy our 2020 Diversity Calendar.

September 2020 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of this month’s diversity events. To view all 100+ events and religious observances, see our Diversity Calendar suite

September heralds the shift from summer to fall – and time for learning and growth. Check out all the diversity days and events to honor with our September diversity celebrations. It’s great opportunity to inspire people working or studying – whether in person or virtually from home – about diversity days worth recognizing.

9/15-10/15: National Hispanic Heritage Month

Our September diversity month is highlighted by the start of National Hispanic Heritage Month. September 15 was chosen as the start date, because it’s the anniversary of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras,and Nicaragua. All five of these countries declared independence in 1821. Try making recipes from these diverse cultures throughout the month to celebrate! And foster racial equity and inclusion in your workplace with our Online Diversity Training.

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9/5: Anniversary of Tashunka Witko’s Death

In September 1877, Tashunka Witko, also known as Crazy Horse, was fatally wounded by a military guard while allegedly resisting imprisonment at Camp Robinson in present-day Nebraska. An Oglala Sioux,  he’s among the most famous Native American warriors and thus a part of our September diversity events.

9/19-9/20: Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah begins at sunset on previous day, September 18. That’s because the ancient Jewish calendar is based on the phases of the moon. On this day, we’ll launch into the Jewish New Year 5780. Rosh Hashanah is the beginning of the Days of Awe, which culminates 10 days later with Yom Kippur. It calls for a reflection about the past year and of the year to come. Discover more holy days with our 2020 Interfaith Calendar.

9/22: Autumnal Equinox

Our September multicultural holidays include Autumnal Equinox. Today the sun will pass directly over the Earth’s equator, and the day and night will be exactly equal in length. Both the autumnal and vernal equinox – as well as the winter and summer solstice – play a key role in many major religions.

9/25: Birthday of Christopher Reeve

Our September diversity topics include people with disabilities. Happy Birthday, Christopher Reeve! In May of 1995, Reeve was thrown from a horse and paralyzed. After his accident, he advocated for research into spinal cord injuries, and lobbied on behalf of others suffering from similar injuries. He founded the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, which is dedicated to finding treatments and cures for paralysis.

9/28: Yom Kippur

Our September multicultural calendar includes Yom Kippur, the “Day of Atonement” in the Jewish religion. It ends the Days of Awe (or Repentance), which are 10 days during which Jews reflect on their sins and seek forgiveness from God. It’s considered the holiest day of the year as Jews atone for their sins. The best greeting to give on this day is “Have an easy fast” or “Have a good holy day.”

Final thoughts

Our September 2020 diversity calendar helps you develop awareness and inclusion each and every day. How can you celebrate these at your workplace or school – whether in person or virtually? And get a head start on next month with our October 2020 Diversity Calendar, and the rest of the year with our 2020 Diversity Calendar.

July 2020 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of this month’s diversity events. To view all 100+ events and religious observances, see our Diversity Calendar suite

In 2020, the Black Lives Moment has swept the United States and the world, fostering seeds of hope for a more just and inclusive world. Our July 2020 Diversity Calendar show how diverse the world is – and how you can foster awareness and inclusion. And give your employees the skills they need, with our online diversity training.

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7/06: 14th Dalai Lama

Born July 6, 1935, the 14th Dalai Lama is famous for his nonviolent efforts to liberate Tibet and his concern about global environmental problems. In 1989, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Celebrate his birthday by pledging to conserve water and electricity from this day forward, or replacing at least one type of disposal item in your home with a reusable.

7/06: Frida Kahlo

Happy Frida Kahlo Day! On July 6th we also celebrate beloved Mexican painter Frida Kahlo’s birthday. Living from 1907 to 1954, Kahlo is known for utilizing naïve folk art to explore a variety of crucial diversity topics such as gender, class, race, identity and post colonialism. Enjoy her artwork today, and take the time to talk about one of these topics with a friend today in honor of this July multicultural holiday.

7/18: Nelson Mandela International Day

In 2009, the United Nations declared July 18 Nelson Mandela International Day. Mandela was South Africa’s president, and a key leader the fight to end apartheid in South Africa. Despite tremendous oppression, Mandela showed us what it means to persevere until a better world could be created for everyone.

7/24: Pioneer Day

A state holiday in Utah, Pioneer Day commemorates the arrival of Brigham Young and his group of pioneers into Utah’s Salt Lake Valley in 1847. These pioneers sought refuge from religious persecution, and found that place of solace in Utah, where the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is based today. Pioneer Day is widely celebrated the the Fourth of July  — fireworks, parades, picnics, and other festivities.

7/26: Americans with Disabilities Act

Created in 1990, the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. The law demands access and amenities must be provided in public places for individuals with disabilities, and allows greater equality for all.

7/29: The Hajj

The Hajj is a five-day annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city for Muslims. Mecca is located in Saudi Arabia, and this year Hajj will take place from 7/29 to 8/2. For Muslims, it is a religious obligation that they must undergo at least once in their life. Each year, roughly 2 million Muslims participate. But during the 2020 covid-19 pandemic, the site is closed to all except a handful of local worshippers, which has caused tremendous grief in the Muslim world. For a list of all of this year’s religious observances, see our 2020 Interfaith Calendar.

7/30: Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av is a Jewish fast day commemorating the five calamities that befell the Jewish people, including the destruction of temples and the city of Betar. Thus, there are generally five prohibitions that are followed on Tisha B’Av. These include: no food/drink, marital relations, bathing, wearing of leather shoes, and applications of oils/creams. Further, during this observance Jews typically avoid utilizing electricity, work as little as possible, avoid gift giving, and sleep on the floor.

Final thoughts

Our July 2020 Diversity Calendar focuses on a wide variety of multicultural holidays as well as birthdays of diverse leaders. Celebrate as many of these July diversity events as you can! Get a head start on next month, with our August 2020 Diversity Calendar . And enjoy a preview into the rest of the year, with our 2020 Diversity Calendar.

June 2020 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of this month’s diversity events. To view all 100+ events and religious observances, see our Diversity Calendar suite.

Our June 2020 Diversity Calendar is here, to help you celebrate a wide variety of diversity events and topics as they occur. As a summer month, June isn’t packed full of holidays. So be sure to enjoy our June multicultural calendar to keep you on track.

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LGBTQ+ Pride Month

Break out your rainbows! It’s time for everyone to join together for the top June diversity celebration. The sixth month was selected as LGBTQ+ Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall riots, a series of spontaneous and violent demonstrations by the gay community in Manhattan in June, 1969.  Regardless of how you identify, join in solidarity and support for the rights of this community. Love is love. And remember June is an ideal time for LBGT sensitivity training.

Caribbean American Heritage Month

Caribbean American Heritage Month was named a June diversity observance by presidential proclamation in 2006. It aims to promote the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean American people. Their contribution to the United States is sometimes overlooked. Now is the time to learn about how Caribbean people helped shaped our country.

6/7: Trinity Sunday

June diversity days include Trinity Sunday, a Christian holy day celebrating the Holy Trinity. This day always occurs on the first Sunday after Pentecost. Christians celebrate this feast to affirm the three members of the holy trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. For more religious observances, see our 2020 Interfaith Calendar.

6/14: Puerto Rican Day Parade

June multicultural holidays include the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. It celebrates the 3.2 million people living in Puerto Rico or of Puerto Rican heritage. Although it’s cancelled for 2020 due to Covid-19, it’s still great time to shout out online and honor Puerto Rican culture.

6/19: Juneteenth

June diversity topics include Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Juneteenth Independence Day. The holiday commemorates the abolition of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865. It more broadly represents the emancipation of African Americans throughout the former Confederates States of America. Soul food is commonly served on this day — fried chicken, barbecue, greens, black-eyed peas, watermelon, and red soda water.

6/19: Feast of the Sacred Heart

June diversity events include the Feast of the Sacred Heart. It’s considered a solemnity, or one of the most important feasts.The Feast of the Sacred Heart is a devotion to the love of God, and marks the spirituality of St. Bernard of Clairvaux in the 12th century. Always 19 days after Pentecost, the date ranges between May 29 and July 2.

6/20: Summer Solstice and Litha

Our June multicultural calendar includes the summer solstice. Known as midsummer or Litha by the Wicca community, it happens when the Earth’s poles have their maximum tilt towards the Sun. Occurring twice a year, the summer solstice is the longest day and shortest night in the Northern Hemisphere. Make the longest day of the year count in the way most festive for you.

Summer of Inclusion

There you have it! Enjoy our June 2020 Diversity Calendar to keep you informed on all of June’s diversity celebration and multicultural holidays. Get a head start on the rest of the year, with our 2020 Diversity Calendar.

May 2020 Diversity Calendar

Below you’ll find a small sampling of this month’s diversity events. To view all 100+ events and religious observances, see our Diversity Calendar suite.

May continues the changing of seasons from colder weather to warmer temperatures – so it’s also the start of new beginnings and changing mindsets.

To remember the importance of diversity, our May 2020 Diversity Calendar features holidays dedicated to inclusivity. Topics include religion, health, and identity. We’ve listed 6 multicultural events to help you schedule around these dates out of respect for this who practice, in addition to other dates that are great opportunities to celebrate these different groups alongside them.

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1. Mental Health Awareness Month

May diversity topics include mental health. Starting in May of 1949 in the United States, Mental Health Awareness Month honors millions of people who have been diagnosed with a mental illness. This holiday is dedicated to destigmatizing the negativity of mental health and promotes support to those diagnosed, along with their families. To learn more about how you can help normalize mental health in the workplace, check out our workplace mental health videos.

2. Jewish American Heritage Month

Our May diversity month includes this heritage observance. Designated as a holiday on April 20, 2006, President George W. Bush dedicated May as Jewish American Heritage Month. It celebrates and honors the heritage of those who played integral roles in developing our current society. Throughout the month, there will be celebrations, art/history exhibits at local museums, teaching lessons and more. For more information, visit the official website here.

3. Older Americans Month

This holiday was created to honor older generations present in society who have impacted our country for generations. Choosing to celebrate those who have made an impact aids in understanding and appreciation. To learn more, the Older Americans Month website offers a plethora of information.

4. May 4 – LGBTQ+: Keith Haring (1959-1990)

Haring’s birthday is among our May diversity days. Best known for his “pop” art accentuating color and curvy details, Keith Haring created public work portraying people and connections for everyone to love. Using these motifs, he created work to support the AIDS awareness campaign, and soon thereafter, he started the Keith Haring Foundation. Learn more about how you, too, can be an ally with the Anyone Can Be an Ally video.

5. May 5 – Mexican American: Cinco de Mayo

Our May multicultural calendar includes this Mexican American holiday. This holiday honors the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, establishing the country’s independence. Celebrate by creating authentic cuisine, appreciate Mexican art, and attend local fiestas.

6. May 13 – Black American: Stevie Wonder

Our May diversity celebrations conclude with Stevie Wonder’s birthday. On this day in Black History, revolutionary and beloved blind musician Wonder was born. This day is celebrated to honor not only a Black icon, but also an American symbol who changed music as we know it.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our May 2020 Diversity Calendar. Get a head start on next month with our June 2020 Diversity Calendar. Or the rest of the year when you read our exclusive 2020 Diversity Calendar.

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