Diversity Calendar Archives

April 2020 Diversity Calendar

For the most current events, see our April 2021 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.

March can still be a bit chilly, but you can always count on April to bring more sunshine! The month brings the blooming of flowers – and the celebration of numerous religious holidays and recognition of diversity.

Our April 2020 diversity calendar focuses on a variety of significant religious holidays as well as some multicultural events. Here are some big dates to keep in mind.

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Celebrate Diversity Month

One of the top April diversity celebrations! Our country would not be what it is if it weren’t for the diversity that defines us. The people all around you — your neighbors, best friends, classmates, fellow citizens, and coworkers — all come from various walks of life. April is the month to recognize and honor them. Looking for a good way to celebrate? Perhaps pick another holiday from the list below and learn more about it. And to help your employees be more aware and inclusive, check out our online diversity training.

4/4: Maya Angelou’s Birthday

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made the feel.” Our April diversity days including the birthday of a true diversity leader, Maya Angelou. She’s remembered for being a writer, poet, civil rights activist, Renaissance women, and winner of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. As a Black American, Angelou gained international recognition and acclaim for her work. In her honor, search online for a poem or two of hers (or check out one of her books from the library!).

4/8: The Birth of Buddha

April diversity topics include a number of religious observances. Around the world, more than 535 million people are Buddhist. Yet it all started with a single prince who turned into a monk. Named Siddhartha Gautama, he realized that peace could be found through spiritual discipline. Thus he renounced his worldly life and sought a spiritual quest. For more interfaith events, see our religious calendar 2020.

4/9: Passover Begins

April diversity events also include Passover, a Jewish holiday that lasts for eight days. It marks the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Passover begins the previous evening with a Seder, or a meal, where the Haggadah (the book of Exodus and related writings) are recited in order. During this holiday, it is forbidden to eat leavened food products (think bread, pasta, etc.). If you’ve never tried matzah, give it a try during this week to recognize Passover! This is an unleavened bread that Jewish families often eat during this time.

4/12: Easter

Christians (except Greek Orthodox) will celebrate Easter on this day. This is the most important Christian holiday in the world’s largest religion. Easter always falls on Sunday, with the preceding Friday the day Jesus was crucified. Then, according to scripture, “On the third day He rose again from the dead.” The third day is Easter Sunday, and Christians rejoice!

4/24: Ramadan

Our April multicultural calendar includes the first day of Ramadan, which is considered the holiest month of the Muslim year. During this month, no water or food may be taken from sunrise to sunset. It is during this month that the Quran was first revealed to the prophet Muhammad by Allah. If you are curious about the fasting process that Muslims undertake during Ramadan, try it for a day!

4/23: Native American Gathering of Nations

Our April multicultural month concludes with this event, at which over 500 tribes will gather for three days to honor the culture of Native Americans. It is an annual gathering, and tribes travel from both the United States and Canada to participate. There are different events like dance competitions, Miss Indian World, knowledge of tribal traditions, and Indian Traders Markets for different crafts and art.

April is absolutely blossoming with diversity days and events! Our April multicultural calendar speaks to the variety of different topics and celebrations occurring this month. Get a head start on next month, with our May 2020 Diversity Calendar. If you’re curious for what else is coming up, check out our 2020 Diversity Calendar.

March 2020 Diversity Calendar

For the most current events, see our March 2021 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.

March marks the beginning of spring, bringing warmer weather, new growth, and a colorful variety of events celebrating diverse ethnicities, cultures and religions.

Our March 2020 Diversity Calendar commemorates influential individuals and multicultural festivities that make this month diverse and inclusive. Greater respect and inclusion is one of the benefits of diversity training in the workplace.

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March – Women’s History Month

One of the key March diversity celebrations is Women’s History Month, honoring the powerful females that fought for equality, freedom and acceptance. Help ensure a respectful and safe workplace for women, with our online interactive harassment training.

March 3rd – Hispanic American/Women: Geisha Williams

March diversity topics highlight the accomplishments of women. Geisha Williams is the first Latina woman to run a Fortune 500 company. Immigrating from Cuba over 50 years ago, Williams received an engineering degree at the University of Miami, after which she climbed the ladder to success. She was named one of Fortune’s most powerful women in 2017 and, up until January of 2019, she was the CEO of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

March 6th – Black American/Muslim: Shaquille O’Neal

March diversity month includes the birthday of Shaquille O’Neal. An American NBA superstar, O’Neal revealed in 2010 that he’s a practicing Muslim, as was his step-father. He plans to to partake in the Hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. O’Neal played professionally for the NBA for 19 years, before announcing his retirement.

March 9th – Hindu: Holi

One of the most colorful of March multicultural holidays, Holi is a traditional Hindu festival. Referred to as the “Festival of Spring”, it’s celebrated widely in India. This social event marks the beginning of the spring harvest and is a time for forgiveness, friendship, love, and a commemoration of personal and seasonal growth. For more interfaith events, see our religious calendar 2020.

March 10th – Black American: Harriet Tubman

One of the key March diversity days. Born into slavery in the early 1800s, Tubman escaped her captors in 1849 and became one of America’s best-known heroes. She aided hundreds of slaves to freedom through the complex tunnels in the Underground Railroad. She later dedicated her life to aiding former plantation workers and the elderly.

March 14th – Jewish German American: Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein was a theoretical physicist. He created the theory of relativity and received the Nobel Peace Prize for Physics in 1921 for his involvement in the development of quantum theory. His contribution to science is legendary, allowing for generations of education and technological advancements.

March 17th – Irish: St Patrick’s Day

One the more beloved March diversity events, this celebration honors the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick. Traditionally it’s held on March 17th, the official day of his death. Although a festive occasion for many, St. Patrick’s Day celebrates the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and is a religious observance within many sects of Christianity and Catholicism.

March 31st – Mexican American: Cesar Chavez

Our March multicultural calendar concludes with Cesar Chavez. A Latino American civil rights activist, Chavez fought for freedom and equality, and co-founded the “The United Farm Workers (UFW) Union.” His work within the community helped improve the lives of countless union labor workers.

March blossoms with celebrations, commemorating the people who made history and changed the world. Each diverse individual and holiday celebrated in March has shaped history and positively influenced generations that followed. Get a head start on next month, with our April 2020 Diversity Calendar. To discover more upcoming diversity events, see our 2020 Diversity Calendar

November 2019 Diversity Calendar

November brings the start of the US holiday season. So that makes this month a great time give thanks and celebrate the diversity that makes our world so dynamic and interesting.

Below you’ll discover our multicultural calendar of events for November 2019, featuring 7 diversity events and multicultural holidays. Some impact work schedules, while others provide an opportunity to celebrate diverse groups.

And be sure to check out our Online Diversity Calendar™ to see all upcoming 2019 diversity holidays and get helpful inclusion tips for your employees.

National Native American Heritage Month

Native Americans incorporate hundreds of different tribes and approximately 250 languages. This observance was launched in 1976 as Native American Awareness Week. In 1990, Congress and President George H. W. Bush expanded the observance, designating November as National Native American Heritage Month.

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Movember

Movember is an annual event involving the growing of moustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and men’s suicide. By encouraging men to get involved, Movember aims to increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments, and ultimately reduce the number of preventable deaths. Besides annual check-ups, the Movember Foundation encourages men to be aware of family history of cancer and to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

November 1, 2019 – Mexico : Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos)

Our multicultural calendar also features Día de los Muertos. Beginning on the evening of October 31 and celebrated through November 2 by Mexicans and Mexican Americans, this holiday has its roots in two traditions: the Christian observance of All Saints and All Souls Day, and two Aztec festivals in which the souls of the dead were welcomed back to visit those who remembered them.

November 1 – LGBTQ+ : Tim Cook

‘I’m proud to be gay, and I consider being gay among the greatest gifts God has given me. We pave the sunlit path toward justice together, brick by brick. This is my brick.” -Tim Cook

Our November diversity and inclusion calendar includes Timothy Donald Cook (November 1, 1960 – ). Cook is the Chief Executive Officer of Apple Inc., previously serving as the company’s Chief Operating Officer, under its founder Steve Jobs. In 2014, he became the first chief executive of a Fortune 500 company to publicly identify as gay.

November 10, 2019 – Islamic: Mawlid

Our 2019 interfaith calendar features this important Muslim holiday. Occurring on the 12th day of the Muslim month of Rabi ul-Awwal, Mawlid marks the birth of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, in 570 A.C.E. For more religious holidays, see our 2020 Interfaith Calendar

November 20 – LGBTQ+: Transgender Day of Remembrance

Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) is observed annually on November 20. It’s a day to memorialize those who have been killed as a result of anti-transgender violence, and to bring attention to the continued violence endured by the transgender community. To create a more inclusive workplace, check out our LGBT training videos.

November 30 – Black American: Shirley Chisholm

Our November diversity and inclusion calendar also features this pioneering politician, educator and author. Chisholm was the first Black American woman elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968, where she served seven terms. While in Congress, she spoke out for civil rights, women’s rights and the poor, and against the Vietnam War. In 1972 Chisholm became a Democratic candidate for President of the United States, the first major party Black American candidate for the U.S. presidency.

To find out more multicultural holidays and events, see our Online Diversity Calendar™ to enjoy all upcoming 2019 diversity holidays and get helpful inclusion tips for your employees.

Interfaith Calendar 2020

Major Religious Holidays, Inclusive Calendar of Holy Days

For the most current events, see our 2021 Interfaith Calendar

Being aware of world religions and holidays is key for respectful scheduling and creating inclusion, 365 days a year. To help you, here’s our 2020 interfaith calendar, and inclusive religious calendar of holy days.

This major religious holidays calendar and list of world religious festivals is compiled from a list of all events – as well as inclusion tips, diet restrictions and more – you’ll find in our interactive Electronic Diversity Calendar.

Note: below you’ll find a small sampling of this year’s religious observances. To view all 200+ events and religious observances, see our Diversity Calendar suite

January 2020 Events

01/02 – Sikh: Guru Gobind Singh’s Birthday – honors Guru Gobind Singh (1666-1708), the Sikhs’ tenth great master and teacher

01/06 – Christian: Epiphany – celebrated in Hispanic and some European countries, marking 12 days after Christmas and the three kings arriving in Bethlehem with gifts for baby Jesus

01/07 – Coptic Orthodox Christian: Christmas – observed on this date by the Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt and several Eastern Orthodox Christian communities (Eastern Europe)

01/14 – Eastern Orthodox Christian: New Year

01/15 – Hindu: Makar Sankranti – harvest festival, marking the beginning of spring in India

01/19 – Baha’i : World Religion Day- celebrates oneness of world religions and a motivating force for world unity

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February Inclusive Religious Calendar

02/01 – Pagan and Wiccan: Imbolc begins at sundown, celebration of fire and light and the return of life

02/02 – Christian: Candlemas – the blessing of the church’s supply of candles for the year

02/10 – Jewish: Tu Bishvat begins at sundown – a minor holiday, New Year of the Trees is widely celebrated to renew the land and plant trees

02/15 – Buddhist: Parinirvana or Nirvana Day – in Mahãyãna Buddhism, marks Buddha’s death in 483 BCE and attainment of final nirvana

02/21 – Hindu: Maha Shivaratri (Shiva’s Night) – honors Shiva, one of the most important Hindu deities

02/25 – Baha’i: Festival of Ayyam-i-Ha (2/25-2/29) – gifts, charity and preparation for fasting preceding the New Year

02/26 – Christian: Ash Wednesday – marks the beginning of Lent, 40 days of prayer and fasting before Easter Sunday

List of Religious Holidays in March

03/09 – Jewish: Purim (Feast of Lots) – begins at sundown, celebrates the rescue of ancient Persian Jews from a plot to destroy them

03/10 – Hindu: Holi – festival of colors, marking the coming of spring in India and new harvest of winter crop

03/10 – Sikh: Hola Mohalla – three-day Sikh festival celebrated in Punjab

03/19 – Pagan and Wiccan: Ostara – begins at sundown, sabbat observed on the vernal equinox

03/19 – Roman Catholic: Feast of St Joseph – honors St Joseph, the husband of Mary

03/20 – Baha’i: Naw Ruz (New Year) begins at sundown – marks the end of the Baha’i Fast and beginning of new year

03/22 – Islamic: Lailat al Miraj begins at sundown – the Night of the Ascension commemorates the journey of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Jerusalem, where he ascended to heaven

03/20 – Zoroastrian: Naw Ruz (New Year) – celebrated at the vernal equinox

03/25 – Christian: The Annunciation – honors the Angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary of Galilee that she would become the mother of Jesus

Find out about more diversity celebrations, with our March 2020 Diversity Calendar

April 2020 Interfaith Calendar of Holy Days

04/06 – Jain: Mahavir Jayanti – most important holiday in Jainism, celebrated with prayer and visits to shrines

04/08 – Buddhist: Buddha’s Birth

04/09 – Jewish: Passover – begins at sundown, observed for eight days and celebrates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt

04/12 – Christian: Easter – celebrates the resurrection of Jesus after he was crucified and died in Jerusalem

04/13 – Hindu: Vaisakhi (New Year)

04/19 – Roman Catholic: Feast of Divine Mercy – on this Sunday, all those who go to Confession and receive Holy Communion will be forgiven of sins and receive divine grace

04/19 – Coptic Orthodox Christian: Ascension Day – Coptic Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox Christians mark the anniversary of Jesus rising to heaven

04/24 – Islamic: Ramadan (4/24-5/23) – begins at sighting of crescent moon, the first day of Ramadan, a month of fasting and the holiest time of the Muslim year

04/30 – Pagan and Wiccan: Beltaine begins at sundown – the second most important Sabbat, marking the beginning of summer and celebrating life and fertility

For more diversity events, see our April 2020 Diversity Calendar

Major Religious Holidays for May

05/07 – Buddhist: Vesak – also called Buddha Day, commemorates the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha

05/21 – Christian: Ascension Day – marks the anniversary of the day Jesus rose to heaven

05/23 – Baha’i: Declaration of the Bab – commemorates the Bab’s prediction of the new messenger of God

05/23 – Islamic: Eid al-Fitr – begins at sighting of crescent moon, the Feast of Breaking the Fast marking the end of Ramadan

05/29 – Jewish: Shavuot – begins at sundown, festival of first fruits, following the key harvest season

To find out about more inclusion opportunities, enjoy our May 2020 Diversity Calendar

June Religious Festivals Calendar

06/07 – Christian: Trinity Sunday – celebrates the Christian doctrine of the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit

06/11 – Roman Catholic: Feast of Corpus Christi – Latin for ‘Body of Christ’, this movable Christian feast commemorates the Holy Eucharist

06/14 – Baha’i: Race Unity Day – celebrated worldwide to promote racial harmony and understanding

06/14 – Eastern Orthodox Christian: All Saints Day – marks the close of the Easter season

06/16 – Sikh: Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Sahib

06/19 – Roman Catholic: Feast of the Sacred Heart – one of the most popular of all devotions in the Roman Catholic Church

06/20 – Pagan and Wiccan: Litha (Summer Solstice) begins at sundown – sabbat observed on the summer solstice

For more information, see our June 2020 Diversity Calendar

July 2020 Religious Holidays Calendar

07/10 – Baha’i: Martyrdom of the Bab – commemorates the arrest, torture, imprisonment and execution of the Bab

07/23 – Rastafarian: Birthday of Haile Selassie – one of the holiest Rastafarians holidays, it celebrates Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia, believed to be the incarnation of God

07/24 – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: Pioneer Day – commemorates Brigham Young leading believers to the Great Salt Lake, where they would establish their church and Salt Lake City

07/28 – Islamic: The Hajj (7/29-8/2) – begins at sundown, an annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia; all able Muslims must make the pilgrimage at least once

07/29 – Jewish: Tisha B’Av begins at sundown – marks the destruction of the Jewish temple in Jerusalem in 586 BCE and again in 70 CE

07/30 – Islamic: Eid al-Adha – three-day festival ending the Hajj pilgrimage

Get more diversity events, with our July 2020 Diversity Calendar

World Religion Calendar for August

08/01 – Pagan and Wiccan: Lughnasadh – also known as the festival of the first fruits, it’s the first of three harvest sabbats, celebrating the ripening of grains and corn

08/15 – Roman Catholic: Feast of the Assumption – honors the belief by Roman Catholics in Mary’s assumption to heaven

08/19 – Islamic: Islamic New Year – beginning at the sighting of crescent moon, it’s also known as the Hijri or Arabic New Year

08/16 – Jain: Paryushana – also know as the Festival of Forgiveness, it’s the most important Jain religious observance

Discover more diversity holidays, with our August 2020 Diversity Calendar

September Interfaith Holy Days

09/01 – Hindu: Pitru Paksha begins – 16 days when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors, especially through food offerings

09/11 – Coptic Orthodox Christian: Nayrouz (Coptic New Year) – begins the new year for the Coptic Orthodox Church of Egypt

09/18 – Jewish: Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown – begins the Jewish New Year and the Days of Awe, a period of reflection on the past year and the year to come

09/21 – Pagan and Wiccan: Mabon (Autumnal Equinox) begins at sundown – Sabbat observed on the autumnal equinox

09/28 – Jewish: Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) – ends the Days of Awe or Days of Repentance, 10 days during which Jews reflect on their sins and seek forgiveness

Discover more diversity events with our September 2020 Diversity Calendar

October 2020 Inclusive Calendar

10/02 – Jewish: Sukkot (10/3-10/9) begins at sundown, celebrating the end of the holiday season that began with Rosh Hashanah

10/07 – Islamic: Arbaeen begins at sundown – marks the end of the 40-day mourning period following Ashura, the anniversary of the martyrdom of Hussein ibn Ali, grandson of Islam’s prophet Muhammad

10/17 – Hindu: Navratri begins – one of the greatest Hindu festivals, honoring the Goddess Durga

10/19 – Baha’i: Birthday of the Bab – marks the birthday of the Bab (1819-1850), who is honored by the Baha’is as the one who announced God’s messenger would soon appear

10/25 – Hindu: Dussehra – meaning ‘the tenth day,’ it’s celebrated at the culmination of the ‘nine nights’ festival of Asuj Navratras

10/28 – Islamic: Mawlid (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday) begins at sundown, marks the birth of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam

10/31 – Pagan and Wiccan: Samhain – the most important sabbat, it marks the end of the year’s final harvest, a time to remember the dead and celebrate the cycle of life

Unlock more diversity events with our October 2020 Diversity Calendar

Major Holy Days in November

11/01 – Christian: All Saints Day – Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrates the memory of the Christian saints and martyrs, and deceased family members

11/02 – Rastafarian: Anniversary of the Crowning of Haile Selassie – commemorates the coronation of Ras (Prince) Tafari Makonnen as Emperor Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia

11/12 – Baha’i: Birthday of Baha’u’llah – marks the birthday of Baha’u’llah (1817-1892), prophet-founder of the Baha’i faith

11/14 – Hindu: Diwali – one of the most important Hindu festivals, combines a number of festivals to honor different gods and goddesses

11/15 – Jain: New Year – also known as Veer Samvat, a joyful celebration the day following the Diwali festival

11/30 – Roman Catholic: St Andrew’s Day – feast honoring the patron saint of Scotland, Greece, Russia, Ukraine, Barbados, and Romania

11/30 – Sikh: Guru Nanak Ji’s Birthday – celebrates the birth of the founder of Sikhism

Find out more diversity holidays with our November 2020 Diversity Calendar

December Religious Holidays Calendar

12/08 – Roman Catholic: Feast of the Immaculate Conception – celebrates the Roman Catholic belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, conceived without original sin

12/08 – Buddhist: Bodhi Day (Buddha’s Enlightenment) – Mahãyãna Buddhists celebrate Buddha’s attainment of understanding

12/10 – Jewish: Hanukkah (12/11-12/18) begins at sundown – commemorates the Jewish victory over the Syrian Greeks, ending a three-year period of religious persecution

12/20 – Pagan and Wiccan: Yule begins at sundown – sabbat celebrated on the winter solstice, often observed as the rebirth of the great horned hunter god and the newborn solstice sun

12/25 – Christian: Christmas – celebrates the birth of Jesus, a public holiday in many countries worldwide

12/26 – Roman Catholic: St Stephen’s Day – public holiday

For more diversity events, see our December 2020 Diversity Calendar

We hope you’ve enjoyed highlights from our interfaith calendar for 2020. To see our list of major religious holidays – and get inclusion tips, religious dietary restrictions and more – see our interactive, online Electronic Diversity Calendar.

2020 Diversity Calendar

Multicultural Holidays, Ethnic Inclusion Calendar

Get a head start on 2021, with our 2021 Diversity Calendar

According to a Harvard University study, diversity initiatives don’t work unless awareness and inclusion is a daily practice. Being aware of ethnic holidays is key for respectful scheduling and creating inclusion, 365 days a year.

A multicultural calendar with monthly themes and events is an essential tool for diversity in the workplace training. Here’s our year-long Diversity Calendar for 2020, compiled from our interactive online diversity calendar.

Note: below you’ll find a small sampling of this year’s diversity events. To view all 1,200+ events and religious observances, see our Diversity Calendar suite

January 2020 Diversity Holidays Calendar

1/1 – Black American: Emancipation Proclamation, which freed the slaves

1/8 – People With Disabilities: Stephen Hawking – Birthday of one of most influential physicists in history, paralyzed most of his life

1/17 – Black American, Muslim: Muhammed Ali -Birthday of activist, one of the most significant and celebrated athletes of 20th century

1/20 – Black American: Martin Luther King, Jr, Day – Birthday of national holiday celebrating civil rights leader

1/25 – Chinese New Year – three-day celebration, starting the Year of the Rat

1/26 – LGBTQ+: Ellen DeGeneres – Birthday of television host, leading influencer on public attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights

1/29 – Women, Black American: Oprah Winfrey – Birthday of billionaire media pioneer, often ranked the world’s most influential woman

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Multicultural Calendar for February

Black History Month

2/11 – LGBTQ+: Tammy Baldwin – Birthday of first openly LGBT politician elected to the U.S. Congress, and first elected to U.S. Senate

2/15 – Buddhist: Parinirvana or Nirvana Day – commemorates Buddha’s death in 483 BC and his final nirvana – for more religious holidays, see our 2020 Interfaith Calendar

2/15 – Women: Susan B. Anthony – Birthday of leader of women’s rights and the effort to enable women to vote

2/21 – Black: Barbara Jordan – Birthday of first Black woman elected to the Texas State Senate

2/26 – Christian: Ash Wednesday – the start of Lent, prayer and fasting for 40 days until Easter Sunday

March 2020 Ethnic Holidays

Women’s History Month – celebrates the achievements of women

March 1 – Hispanic American/Women: Geisha Williams – Birthday of first female Hispanic CEO of a Fortune 500 company

3/ 6 – Black American/Muslim: Shaquille O’Neal – Birthday of considered one of the greatest NBA players of all time, and a practicing Muslim

3/9 – Hindu: Holi – honors the winter crop harvest, and advent of spring

3/10 – Black American: Harriet Tubman – abolitionist leader on the Underground Railroad, aided slaves in their journey to freedom

3/14 – Jewish German American: Albert Einstein -Birthday of leading theoretical physicist of the 20th century

3/17 – Irish: St Patrick’s Day – Birthday of celebrates the patron saint of Ireland, who brought Christianity to island

3/31 – Mexican American: Cesar Chavez – Birthday of social activist for Mexicans and Mexican Americans, fighting for equality and economic justice

April Multicultural Holiday Calendar

Celebrate Diversity Month

4/4 – Black American: Maya Angelou – Birthday of writer, poet and renaissance woman, winner of the Presidential Medal of Freedom

4/8 – Buddhist: Buddha’s Birth – prince turned monk, who established Buddhism, one of the world’s top religions

4/9 – Jewish: Passover begins – marks the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, begins previous evening with a Seder or meal

4/12 – Christian: Easter – one of the most important holiday days in the world’s largest religion, celebrates the resurrection of Jesus

4/21 – Jewish: Yom Hashoah or Holocaust Remembrance Day

4/21 – Cancer Survivor: David Servan Schreiber – Birthday of given six months to live, he survived cancer for 15 years, as documented in books such as Anticancer: A New Way of Life

4/24 – Islamic: Ramadan – first day of Ramadan, holiest month of the Muslim year; during this month, no water or food may be taken from sunrise to sunset

4/23 – Native American: Gathering of Nations – over 500 tribes gather for three days to honor the culture of Native Americans

For more details, see our April 2020 Diversity Calendar

2020 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar for May

Mental Health Awareness Month – reaches millions of people in the United States through the media, local events, and screenings

Jewish American Heritage Month – honors the important history of American Jews, and their multifaceted accomplishments

Older Americans Month – honors the contributions of older Americans to society

5/4 – LGBT: Keith Haring – Birthday of artist, created iconic images for AIDS awareness

5/5 – Mexican American: Cinco de Mayo – Birthday of celebrated mostly by Mexican-Americans, honors the Mexican defeat of French army

5/13 – Black American/People With Disabilities : Stevie Wonder – Birthday of one of the most acclaimed and successful musicians of the 20th century, blind since shortly after birth

To discover more, see our May 2020 Diversity Calendar

June Multicultural Calendar

LGBT Pride Month

6/1 – LDS Church: Brigham Young – Birthday of 2nd president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

6/2 – Native Americans: Indian Citizenship Act of 1924

6/14 – Puerto Rican: Puerto Rican Day Parade – parades are held nationwide to honor the contributions and achievements of Puerto Ricans

6/19 – Black American: Juneteenth – marks the freeing of slaves in Texas, and celebrated by Black communities nationwide

6/25 – Hispanic American: Sonia Sotomayor – Birthday of Supreme Court’s first justice of Hispanic descent

6/27 – People With Disabilities: Helen Keller – Birthday of blind and deaf, Keller spent her life advocating for people with disabilities

For more information, see our June 2020 Diversity Calendar

July 2020 Diversity Holidays Calendar

7/6 – Tibetan: 14th Dalai Lama – Birthday of exiled head of Tibet, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize

7/6 – Women, Mexican: Frida Kahlo – Birthday of painter, one of the best-known artists of the 20th century

7/14 – France: Bastille Day – commemorates the start of the French Revolution in 1789 and the eventual end of monarchical rule

7/14 – Hispanic American: Susan Martinez – Birthday of first Latina governor in the United States, and first woman to be elected governor of New Mexico

7/18 – South African: Nelson Mandela – Birthday of anti-apartheid activist and first black president of South Africa

7/26 – Americans with Disabilities Act – prohibits discrimination based on disabilities

7/28 – Islamic: The Hajj – annual pilgrimage to the Saudi holy city of Mecca, able Muslims must make the journey at least once in their lives

For more details, enjoy our July 2020 Diversity Calendar

August Ethnic Calendar

8/4 – Black American: Barack Obama – first Black American to assume the presidency, promoted inclusiveness for LGBT Americans, left office in January 2017 with a 60% approval rating

8/8 – Mexican: Emiliano Zapata – Birthday of revolutionary hero, who fostered democracy and economic justice

8/15 – Roman Catholic: Feast of the Assumption – honors the Roman Catholics belief in Mary’s ascension to heaven

8/20- Islamic: Al-Hijri (New Year) – starting the previous evening, this begins the new year 1440 based on the Islamic lunar calendar

8/22 – Hindu: Ganesh Chaturthi – celebrated in honor of the elephant-headed God

8/24 – People with Disabilities: Marlee Matlin – Birthday of won the Academy Award for Best Actress, the only deaf performer to win the award

8/25 – Jewish American: Leonard Bernstein – Birthday of composer, conductor and performer, one of the great figures of music in the 20th century

8/26 – Women’s Equality Day

Discover more with our August 2020 Diversity Calendar

September 2020 Multicultural Holidays

National Hispanic Heritage Month (9-15 to 10/15)

9/5 – Native American (Oglala Sioux): Tashunka Witko (Crazy Horse)

9/19- Jewish: Rosh Hashanah – beginning at sunset the previous day, this launches the Jewish New Year 5780, and reflection about the past year and year to come

9/22 – Autumnal Equinox

9/25 – People With Disabilities: Christopher Reeve – Birthday of actor turn advocate, paralyzed by fall from a horse, he prompted research on spinal cord injuries

Find out more with our September 2020 Diversity Calendar

October Diversity Holidays

Global Diversity Awareness Month – increase awareness and acceptance of diverse cultures

National Disability Employment Awareness Month – promotes awareness of those with disabilities and inspire their full integration into the workplace

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

National Italian American Heritage Month

10/2 – India : Mahatma Gandhi’s Birthday (Gandhi Jayanti) – Birthday of honors the leader of the Indian struggle for independence

10/6 – United States: German American Heritage Day

10/6 – Black American: Fannie Lou Hamer – Birthday of civil rights advocate, and one of the first Black Americans to register to vote

10/29 – Islamic : Mawlid (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday)

Discover more with our October 2020 Diversity Calendar

November 2020 Multicultural Holidays

Native American Heritage Month

11/1 – LGBTQ+: Tim Cook – Birthday of first openly gay CEO of a Fortune 500 company

10/31-11/2 – Mexico: Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) – rooted in two traditions: the Christian observance of All Saints and All Souls Day, and two Aztec festivals of souls of the dead

11/14 – Hindu: Diwali – one of the most important Hindu festivals, celebrating different gods and goddesses; discover more major religious holidays in 2020

11/16 – Dutch American Heritage Day

11/18 – Hispanic American: Roberto Goizueta – Birthday of first Hispanic Fortune 500

11/20 – LGBTQ+: Transgender Day of Remembrance – build respect in your workplace with our Online Harassment Prevention Training

11/30 – Black: Shirley Chisholm – Birthday of first Black woman to win election to the United States Congress

Find out more with our November 2020 Diversity Calendar

2020 Diversity Calendar for December

12/1 – World AIDS Day

12/10-18 – Jewish: Hanukkah – commemorates the Jewish victory over Syrian Greeks in 165 B.C.E., restoring Jewish independence

12/12 – Italian American: Frank Sinatra (1915-1998) – (birthday of) first worldwide pop superstar, with a career lasting more than half a century

12/12 – Mexico: Fiesta de Guadalupe Feast – Mexico’s patron saint

12/21 – Pagan and Wiccan: Yule – begins at sundown

12/25 – Christian: Christmas – marks the birth of the savior Jesus Christ

12/26 – Black: Kwanzaa (12/26-1/1) – a tribute to African festivals of harvest

We hope you’ve enjoyed our year-long diversity calendar. To enjoy daily diversity events, inclusion tips and more, see our Online Diversity Calendar.

October 2019 Diversity Calendar

October heralds the wonderful colors of autumn. That makes October an ideal time to better see – and appreciate – our colorful differences and similarities. Indeed, there are three major October diversity month themes below.

To help you, here are 7 multicultural events in October 2019. These diversity holidays might respectful scheduling – such as Yom Kippur. Others offer an opportunity to give a shout out to diverse groups, ranging from LGBTQ+ to people with disabilities. Check out our Online Diversity Calendar™ to see all upcoming 2019 diversity holidays and get inclusion tips for your employees.

October 2019: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also called National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the USA, is an annual international health campaign. It’s promoted by major breast cancer charities every October, to increase awareness of the disease, and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure. The campaign also offers information and support to those affected by breast cancer.

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Global Diversity Awareness Month

Another October diversity event in 2019 is Global Diversity Awareness Month. Global diversity awareness focuses on understanding differing cultural perspectives, and valuing the diverse perspectives of all people from all places. Fueled by the belief that workforce diversity is a major business advantage, global diversity awareness promotes cultural diversity training and an inclusive global environment.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Designate by President Reagan in 1988, this October diversity month seeks to enhance public awareness of those with disabilities, and encourage their full integration into the workforce.

October 9, 2019 – Jewish : Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement)

A key October multicultural holiday is Yom Kippur. The ten days from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur are known as the Days of Awe or the Days of Repentance. During this time Jews are to remind themselves of their sins, and seek forgiveness for their wrongdoings. Many Jews observe Yom Kippur, the holiest Jewish holiday, by taking no food or water from sundown the day before through sundown the following day. It is also common for Jews not to work the night before or day of Yom Kippur. For more religious holidays, see our 2020 Interfaith Calendar

October 10 – People with Disabilities : World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day is a day for global mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma. It was first celebrated in 1992 at the initiative of the World Federation for Mental Health. The federation is a global mental health organization with members and contacts in more than 150 countries. Every October 10, advocates promote this annual awareness program to bring attention to mental illness, as well as promote workplace wellness training .

October 11 – LGBTQ+ : National Coming Out Day/March on Washington

The key LGBTQ+ diversity event in October. On this day in 1987, saw the largest gay and lesbian gathering in history, with estimates ranging from 200,000 to 600,000 protestors. The crowd protested anti-gay discrimination, and demanded a stronger government response to the AIDS crisis.

October 27, 2019 – Hindu : Diwali

A major October diversity holiday, Diwali is one of the most important annual festivals in the Hindu religion. Lasting five days, Diwali encompasses a variety of festivals, celebrating various gods and goddesses, and events in their lives. Since Diwali is a ‘festival of lights,’ candles are an appropriate gift.

Get a head start, and check out our November 2019 diversity calendar. Or better yet, discover our Online Diversity Calendar™ to see all upcoming 2019/2020 diversity holidays and get inclusion tips for your employees.

September 2019 Diversity Calendar

September bring autumn, and the leaves of change. So it’s a great time to inspire your people to be more aware and respectful of our differences – and similarities.

Here you’ll find our diversity calendar for September 2019, featuring 7 events and multicultural holidays. Some might impact the workplace, while others are a time to celebrate diverse groups. See our Online Diversity Calendar™ to see all upcoming 2019 diversity holidays and get helpful inclusion tips for your employees.

National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15-October 15

Leading our September multicultural calendar is National Hispanic Heritage Month. Launched in 1968 as National Hispanic Heritage Week, the celebration includes September 15 and 16, the independence days for Central American nations and Mexico, respectively. In 1988, the period was expanded to National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Each year the National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers and the Hispanic Foundation select a theme for the month, and commission a poster to reflect that theme. An important part of respecting Hispanics is being aware of communication differences, as explored in this training video on cross cultural communication.

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September 2, 2019 – Hindu : Ganesh Chaturthi

This Hindu festival is a key diversity holiday in Sept. 2019. It’s celebrated in honour of the elephant-headed god, Ganesha, usually in August or September. The festival generally lasts ten days, and is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chavithi. For more religious holidays, see our 2020 Interfaith Calendar

September 16 – Mexico : Independence Day (El Día de Independencia)

On September 16, 1810, in the town of Dolores in the province of Guanajuato, a handful of people were summoned by a parish priest to take up arms against the Spanish colonial government. This began the fight for independence that ended 350 years of Spanish rule. Celebrated by people of Mexican origin throughout the world, this is a day when Mexican Americans often hang Mexican flags at their homes.

September 20 – Black American : Ursula Burns

‘I’m a black lady from the Lower East Side of New York. Not a lot intimidates me. Believe that there are no limitations, no barriers to your success — you will be empowered and you will achieve.’
-Ursula Burns

Diversity events include the birthdays of diversity leaders, such as Ursula M. Burns (September 20, 1958 – ). Burns is an American business executive, and the first black woman CEO to head a Fortune 500 company. In 2014, Forbes rated her the 22nd most powerful woman in the world.

September 20 – Women : HeForShe

HeForShe is a solidarity campaign for the advancement of gender equality, initiated by the United Nations. Founded on September 20th, 2014, it’s backed by a number of celebrities, notably actress Emma Watson.

Its goal is to achieve equality by encouraging all genders as agents of change and take action against negative stereotypes and behaviors, faced by people with feminine personalities/genders. Sexual harassment prevention training is key to gender equality.

September 25 – People with Disabilities : Christopher Reeve (1952-2004)

Christopher Reeve was an actor, including starring in the hist Superman, as well as acting in 17 feature films, a dozen TV movies, and more than 150 plays. His career was cut short after an equestrian accident. Reeve landed head first, fracturing the uppermost vertebrae in his spine, instantly paralyzing him from the neck down. After a grueling effort to regain his ability to breathe and speak, Reeve became an advocate for research on healing spinal cord injuries. He became Chairman of the American Paralysis Association and Vice Chairman of the National Organization on Disability. He also became a national spokesperson for and raised funds in support of stem cell research.

September 30, 2019 – Jewish : Rosh Hashanah (New Year) (9/30-10/1)

Rounding out our September 2019 diversity calendar is Rosh Hashanah. Like most Jewish holidays, it begins at sundown the evening before the first (full) day of the holiday. Rosh Hashanah signifies the beginning of the Days of Awe, a period of serious reflection about the past year and the year to come. This period, which continues until Yom Kippur, is a time for asking forgiveness from both God and other people, and committing oneself to live a better life in the year to come.

To find out more multicultural holidays and events, see our Online Diversity Calendar™ to enjoy all upcoming 2019 diversity holidays and get helpful inclusion tips for your employees.

August 2019 Diversity Calendar

August 4, 2019 – Black American : Barack Obama

“The world respects us not just for our arsenal; it respects us for our diversity and our openness and the way we respect every faith.” -Barack Obama

Barack Hussein Obama II (1961- ) is an American politician who served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. He was the first Black American to assume the presidency. Obama promoted inclusiveness for LGBT Americans. His administration filed briefs that urged the Supreme Court to strike down same-sex marriage bans as unconstitutional (United States v. Windsor and Obergefell v. Hodges). Obama left office in January 2017 with a 60% approval rating and currently resides in Washington, D.C.

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August 9, 2019 – United Nations : International Day of the World’s Indigenous People

First proclaimed by the U.N. General Assembly in 1994, this is a day to celebrate the unique cultures of indigenous peoples around the world.

August 10, 2019 – Islamic : The Hajj (8/10-8/14)

The Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. All Muslims who are able are required to make the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. The Hajj is a time for reflection and celebration, when more than two million Muslims from around the world gather together to celebrate their faith. The culmination of the Hajj is the three-day festival of Eid al-Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice), the most important feast of the Muslim calendar.

August 24, 2019 – People with Disabilities : Marlee Matlin

‘It was ability that mattered, not disability, which is a word I’m not crazy about using.’ -Marlee Matlin

Marlee Beth Matlin (born August 24, 1965) is an American actress, author and activist. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for Children of a Lesser God, to date the only deaf performer to have won the award. Matlin is a prominent member of the National Association of the Deaf. In recognition of her philanthropic work and her advocacy for the inclusion of people with disabilities, Matlin received the 2016 Morton E. Ruderman Award in Inclusion, given to one individual whose work excels at promoting disability inclusion.

August 26, 2019 – Italian American : Geraldine Ferraro (1935-2011)

Lawyer and politician. Ferraro was the first woman and the first Italian American to run on a major party national ticket. In 1984, she ran as Walter Mondale’s vice presidential running mate on the Democratic Party ticket in the presidential election. She served as the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights under the Clinton Administration. Ferraro was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1994.

August 26, 2019 – United States : Women’s Equality Day

A law passed by Congress in 1974 sets this day aside to mark the certification in 1920 of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. The 19th Amendment prohibits discrimination in voting based on gender.

August 31, 2019 – Islamic : Islamic New Year (Hijri)

This begins the first day of Muharram of the new year 1441 based on the Islamic lunar calendar. Recognizing the festival/holiday: any sweet dessert is an appropriate gift. Muslims do not drink alcoholic beverages.

Enjoy a head start on next month, when you view our September 2019 Diversity Calendar.

July 2019 Diversity Calendar

July is the peak of summer, and thus a great time for a sunny celebration of diversity. That makes July a wonderful time to be more aware – and appreciative – of our wonderful differences and similarities.

To help you, here are 7 multicultural events and holidays in July 2019, from our Online Diversity Calendar. These provide a terrific opportunity to say “we’re different and – together – we are awesome.”

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July 2 – Black American : Thurgood Marshall (1908-1993)

Civil rights leader and Supreme Court justice. Marshall was head of the legal services division of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People from 1938 to 1962. He thus led the legal effort to advance the civil rights of all Americans, particularly those belonging to minority groups. His most famous victory was the 1954 Supreme Court decision Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka, which ended racial segregation in public schools.

July 6 – Mexican : Frida Kahlo (1907-1954)

Painter. Kahlo was born in the outskirts of Mexico City three years before the beginning of the Mexican Revolution. She was one of the most individualistic painters of the first half of the twentieth century. Known for her distinctive self-portraits filled with rich colors and symbolic imagery, Kahlo expressed in form and color her innermost feelings and states of mind.

July 6 – Tibetan : 14th Dalai Lama (1935 – )

The 14th Dalai Lama, born 6 July 1935, is the current Dalai Lama. He assumed full temporal (political) duties on 17 November 1950, at the age of 15, after the People’s Republic of China’s invasion of Tibet. During the 1959 Tibetan uprising, the Dalai Lama fled to India, where he currently lives as a refugee. The 14th Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. He has traveled the world and spoken about many topics. Although in exile from his home in Tibet, he remains a prominent political figure for the people of Tibet.

July 14, 2019 – France : Bastille Day

This celebrates the fall of the Bastille prison, marking the beginning of the French Revolution in 1789. The revolution led to the end of monarchial rule and the creation of a French Republic. Given their French heritage, many Louisiana ‘parishes,’ hold Bastille Day festivals featuring Cajun food, music, and dance. These include New Orleans and Kaplan, sometimes called ‘the most Cajun place on earth.’

July 18 – United Nations : Nelson Mandela International Day

In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly declared Nelson Mandela’s birthday, July 18, to be Nelson Mandela International Day. The UN made the declaration, in recognition of his humanitarian achievements, and his contribution to racial reconciliation, democracy, and peace throughout the world.

July 20 – People with Disabilities: First Special Olympics Games (1968)

On this date in 1968, the first Special Olympics opened at Soldier Field in Chicago. Founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, it’s an athletic competition for children and adults with cognitive disabilities. The competitions are held every two years, alternating between summer and winter games. The World Summer Games are held in the year before the regular Olympics. For more information, see our disability awareness training videos.

July 26 – People with Disabilities: Americans with Disabilities Act (1990)

Signed into law on this date, the ADA is a milestone of U.S. civil rights legislation. It protects people with disabilities from discrimination in the areas of employment, transportation, and public accommodation. The law requires a wide range of public and private establishments to make new and renovated facilities accessible to people with disabilities, and ‘readily achievable’ changes to existing facilities in order to increase accessibility.

To find out about more multicultural events and holidays, check out our August diversity calendar or our diversity holiday calendar for 2019

June 2019 Diversity Calendar

June brings the colors of summer, and thus it’s a great time to celebrate a rainbow of diversity. That makes it an ideal time to better see – and appreciate – our wonderful differences and similarities.

To help you, here are 7 diversity holidays in June 2019, from our Online Diversity Calendar. These events need respectful scheduling – or just give the chance to shout out to specific diversity groups.

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LGBT Pride Month

On June 11, 1999, President William J. Clinton issued a presidential proclamation designating June as LGBT Pride Month. The date marked the 30th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising and the birth of the modern LGBT civil rights movement. Every year, an International Pride Theme is chosen at the InterPrice Annual Conference. Be sure to view Anyone Can Be an Ally, our most popular LGBT training video.

June 2 – United States : Granting of Citizenship to Native Americans (1924)

On this day, Congress extended the rights of citizenship to all Native Americans born in the United States. Previously, only part of the Native American population had been granted citizenship through treaties, statutes, naturalization, and service in the armed forces.

June 3 – LGBTQ+ : Anderson Cooper

“I’m gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn’t be any more happy, comfortable with myself, and proud.”
-Anderson Cooper

Anderson Hays Cooper (June 3, 1967 – ) is an American journalist, television personality, and author. Cooper is openly gay; according to The New York Times, he is ‘the most prominent openly-gay journalist on American television.’ Apple CEO Tim Cook turned to Cooper for advice before he subsequently made the decision to publicly come out as gay.

June 9, 2019 – United States : Puerto Rican Day Parade

Since 1958, New York and other major cities have held parades on the second Sunday in June to celebrate the contributions of the Puerto Rican people to history. The parades feature floats, singers, and dancers in colorful costumes. They’re similar to St. Patrick’s Day, Italian, and Polish parades that have been held for decades in cities throughout the country.

June 19 – Black American : Juneteenth

This commemorates the emancipation of all slaves in Texas by the Union general Gordon Grange. As news of the Emancipation Proclamation issued in January moved westward, he announced on this day that, ‘The people of Texas are informed that in accord with a Proclamation of the Executive of the United States all slaves are free . . . .’ This is a time for various celebrations in African-American communities, including speeches, rallies, and displays of art and music. For more information, visit Juneteenth.

June 25 – Hispanic American : Sonia Sotomayor

‘In every position that I’ve been in, there have been naysayers who don’t believe I’m qualified or who don’t believe I can do the work. And I feel a special responsibility to prove them wrong.’

-Sonia Sotomayor

Sonia Maria Sotomayor (born June 25, 1954) is an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, serving since August 2009. She is the Supreme Court’s first justice of Hispanic descent, first Latina and third woman.

June 27 – People with Disabilities : Helen Keller (1880-1968)

“Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence, and I learn, whatever state I may be in, therein to be content.”

– Helen Keller

Author and educator. Left deaf and blind by illness at the age of 19 months, Helen Keller learned to speak and then to read and write Braille with the help of her remarkable teacher, Annie Sullivan. After graduating cum laude from Radcliffe College in 1904, she devoted her life to writing and social activism, particularly in aid of people with one or both of her disabilities. Her extraordinary achievements made her an international heroine and an inspiration to millions.

To find out about more multicultural events and holidays, check out our July diversity calendar or our diversity holiday calendar for 2019

May 2019 Diversity Calendar

May is a time of warmth, and thus a great time to have greater awareness – and appreciation – of diversity at home and worldwide.

To help you, here are 7 multicultural events and diversity holidays in May 2019. Some – such as Ramadan – require respectful scheduling, while others are simply provide a great opportunity to celebrate specific diversity groups and say – we appreciate and include you!

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Mental Health Awareness Month

Our May 2019 diversity calendar features 4 month-long themes, including Mental Health Awareness Month. Also referred to as Mental Health Month, it’s been observed in May in the United States since 1949. The campaign reaches millions of people in the United States through the media, local events, and screenings. To promote mental health in your workplace, check out our workplace wellness videos.

Older Americans Month

Older Americans Month was established by presidential proclamation to honor the contributions of older Americans to society.

Jewish American Heritage Month

May multicultural events include Jewish American Heritage Month. On April 20, 2006, President George W. Bush issued a presidential proclamation designating this annual theme. In his proclamation, the president said, ‘During Jewish American Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich history of the Jewish people in America and honor the great contributions they have made to our country. As a nation of immigrants, the United States is better and stronger because Jewish people from all over the world have chosen to become American citizens.”

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month

Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month began in 1979 as Asian Heritage Week, established by congressional proclamation. On October 23, 1992, President George H. W. Bush signed legislation into law that made May of each year Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.

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

Pop artist. Haring created a wide variety of public art, such as subway drawings of animals and human images and murals. His work ranged from the first mural in a school yard on New York City’s Lower East Side, to a mural on the Berlin Wall. Haring also created designs for performances and for Swatch watches. In 1987, he used his art to support campaigns for AIDS awareness and created the Keith Haring Foundation to contribute to a wide variety of social concerns. To boost LGBTQ+ inclusion in your workplace, check out the Anyone Can Be an Ally video.

May 6, 2019 – Islamic : Ramadan (5/6-6/4)

One of the key diversity holidays for May 2019. This begins the first day of the Islamic month of Ramadan, a month of fasting and the holiest month of the Muslim year. The fast of Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and mandatory for every Muslim who has reached puberty except those who are ill, pregnant, or on a journey. During this month, no water or food may be taken from sunrise to sunset. Before inviting someone to lunch or hosting a meal, check to see whether the invitee is observing the fast for this period. To see all upcoming religious holidays, see our online diversity calendar.

May 13 – Black American : Stevie Wonder

Stevland Hardaway Morris (born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950) is better known by his stage name, Stevie Wonder. One of the most critically and commercially successful musicians of the late 20th century, he’s been blind since shortly after birth. Wonder has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. He has recorded more than 30 U.S. top ten hits and received 25 Grammy Awards, one of the most-awarded male solo artists.

To see a list of key events for the entire year, see our 2019 diversity holidays calendar

April 2019 Diversity Calendar

For the most current events, see our April 2020 Diversity Calendar

April is a time when many traditions celebrate spring, and also features Celebrate Diversity Month. So April is a great time to inspire your employees and students to be more aware – and appreciative – of our differences and similarities.

Below you’ll find 7 multicultural events and diversity holidays in April 2019. Some events might impact work schedules; others simply provide a great opportunity to celebrate specific diversity groups. For a complete list, see our interactive online diversity calendar.

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April, 2019 – Celebrate Diversity Month

Launched in 2004, Celebrate Diversity Month is featured each April to recognize and honor the nation’s diversity. Celebrate diversity – and boost awareness and inclusion – with our online diversity training!

The purpose is to help people from all walks of life gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other. From Allstate to TIAA, from the US Army to US Postal Service, Celebrate Diversity Month is widely recognized and celebrated by leading workplaces nationwide. This multicultural diversity event is not yet a federally-recognized theme month.

April 1 – LGBTQ+ : Rachel Maddow

Rachel Anne Maddow (born April 1, 1973) is an American television host, liberal political commentator and author. Maddow became the first openly gay anchor to host a major prime-time news program in the United States.

April 4 – Black American : Maya Angelou (1928-2014)

Poet, writer, civil rights activist. Maya Angelou was a Renaissance woman whose versatility was reflected in the many roles she excelled in during her lifetime: poet, writer, journalist, actress, dancer, singer, educator, director, producer and civil rights activist. Maya Angelou received the country’s highest civilian honor when President Barack Obama named her a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2010.

April 8, 2019 – Buddhist : Buddha’s Birth

Siddhartha Gautama, who became known as Buddha or ‘enlightened one,’ was an Indian prince who left his family at the age of 29 to seek the truth of life. After years of wandering, meditation, and self-denial, he attained the enlightenment he sought at a place now called Buddha Gaya or Bodh Gaya. The religion he founded spread throughout central and Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and Korea, and has also attracted followers in the West. Find out more about how religion impacts the workplace.

April 20, 2019 – Jewish : Passover (first day of 8-day observance)

Observed for eight days, this holiday celebrates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The celebration of Passover, a spring festival commemorating freedom and new life, begins the previous evening with a Seder, a meal during which the story of Passover is read from the Haggadah. Jews observing the holiday abstain from eating any foods with leavening, such as bread, cake, and donuts. Before arranging any event involving food, check to see if invitees are following a special Passover diet.

April 21, 2019 – Christian : Easter

This religious holiday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus after he was crucified and died in Jerusalem. Jesus’ suffering and death on the cross, followed by his resurrection, is central to Christian faith. Easter is a joyous holiday, since it marks for Christians the fulfillment of the Biblical prophecy of the coming of the Messiah. In addition to its religious significance, Easter is also celebrated as a spring holiday with themes of rebirth, gathering with family and friends, and sharing special foods.

April 26, 2019 – Native American : Gathering of Nations Powwow

This three-day multicultural event, held annually at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, is the largest powwow in North America. More than 500 tribes from Canada and the United States participate in this annual celebration of American Indian culture. It features drum groups and ceremonial singing, chanting, dancing in traditional dress, and more. The Gathering of Nations organization seeks to promote the traditions and culture of the American Indian people in the most positive manner possible, and dispel stereotypes created about Native Americans.

Get a head start on next month, with our May 2020 Diversity Calendar. To discover more multicultural holidays and events, see our 2020 Diversity Calendar.