Category: Diversity Calendar

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

Summer is ending and a new school year is upon us. This fall celebrates recovery efforts and the Hispanic community. September is also a month of many religious celebrations that members of your staff may resonate with. Take some time to learn about these important days with our Diversity Calendar 2023.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share September awareness days, September diversity days, September heritage months, September high holy days, September religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Celebrated Themes

Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrated from September 15 – October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month honors the rich culture, history, and contributions of Americans with roots in the Caribbean, Spain, Mexico, Central, and South America. It was first established in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. September 15 is significant as it is the anniversary of the independence of many Central American countries.

National Recovery Month

Starting in 1989, this national observance is intended to promote and support treatment and recovery practices. In 2022, the theme “Every Person. Every Family. Every Community” was adopted as a permanent tagline, reflecting the ongoing commitment to helping anyone struggling with addiction and fostering recovery nationwide.

Monthly Standouts

September 6: Arbaeen

Also meaning 40th day, Arabaeen marks the 40th day after the Day of Ashura when Hussain ibn Ali, a revolutionary leader fighting for social justice, was killed during the Battle of Karbala. It is believed on this day that Hussain’s family returned home to honor and mourn those lost during the battle. Large marches are conducted to symbolize the impact of his revolution on the future of his people.

September 15 – 17: Rosh Hashanah

The Jewish New Year is celebrated with reflection, worship, and meals among family and friends. It is observed on the first and second days of the month Tishrei, the first month in the Jewish calendar.

September 20: HeForShe

Initiated by the United Nations, this movement advocates for gender equality. Its mission is to unite people of all genders in the pursuit of equality for all.

September 24 – 25: Yom Kippur

It is one of the two main Jewish High Holy Days. Occurring on the 10th of the month of Tishrei, it focuses on repentance and atonement. Fasting and intense prayer are common during this religious observance.

September 26 – 27: Mawlid al-Nabi

The birthday of the Prophet Muhammad is celebrated on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal.

Learn more about religious holidays and celebrations with our Interfaith Calendar.

September 29 – October 6: Sukkot

This week is dedicated to the Israelites that spent time in the wild in huts, or sukkahs, after they were freed from slavery in Egypt.

September 29 – October 14: Pitru Paksha

These 16 Hinduism holy days are dedicated to offering prayers and food for the souls of Hindu ancestors. It is seen as a way to honor and repay the debt (dharma) owed to ancestors for their happiness and well-being.

Learn more about September diversity days with our Diversity Calendar 2023.

Don’t Forget To….

Help your employees to learn more about their colleagues by celebrating a variety of different religious and national days throughout the year. By making your workplace more engaging, your staff will feel accepted, which leads to increased productivity and morale. With monthly themes, you can help raise awareness for causes that may be important to your staff too.

This wraps up our September Diversity Calendar. Remaining informed about these important dates will ensure that you not only continue to learn and grow, but you help facilitate a diverse culture in your workplace. Learn more about different religious and cultural observances through our Online Diversity Calendar.

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

This month focuses on three different world religions. Every month, we will provide you with insightful information about different religious events. We hope it inspires you to share the post with your friends or colleagues and continue the discussion of these important topics of diversity and inclusion in your daily life.

Our 2023 Interfaith Calendar includes a more comprehensive account of all the religious holidays and holy days worldwide. Our monthly blog post is just a sampling of events occurring each month.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share August awareness days, August diversity days, August heritage months, August high holy days, August religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Please note that if a holiday begins the evening before, we will mark it with an asterisk (*).

August Religious Holidays

August 13* – Tisha B’av (Judaism)

Considered the saddest day in the Jewish Year, it is a day of mourning and fasting. It remembers the destruction of ancient Temples, including Solomon’s Temple and the Second Temple. When night falls, the fast is broken.

What’s Forbidden on This Day

Based on the Laws of Mourning, certain practices are forbidden for Orthodox Jews on this holy day, including:

• Eating or drinking from sunrise to sunset (All except those physically ill or extremely weak and pregnant should partake in fasting.)
• Bathing
• Sexual intimacy
• Wearing leather footwear
• Studying the Torah (except passages that talk about the Temples destruction)
• Sit on a normal-height chair before midday

Learn more about Jewish holy days and religious holidays.

August 15 – Dormition of the Theotokos (Mary) (Greek Orthodox)

The Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the “falling asleep” of the Mother of Jesus Christ, Mary. It also honors her ascension into heaven. When Jesus died on the cross, he called out “Woman, behold your son, and to John, he said: “Behold your mother!” From that point on, John took care of Mary as his own, and at the time of her death, the disciples of Jesus returned to Jerusalem to see the Theotokos.

Preparation for this day: On August 1, a fasting period begins, which prohibits meat, dairy, oil, or wine.

August 26 – Krishna Janmashtami (Hinduism)

This day celebrates Lord Krishna’s birthday. Celebrated widely in India and other Hindu countries, this festival takes place on Ashtami of Krishna Paksh. His mission was to remove evil from the Earth and to spread positive messages of love and unity. This fasting day is celebrated by worshiping him with songs and aarti, a worship ritual using light. Temples are decorated with lights and flowers.

Learn more about Hinduism holy days and Hindy religious observances.

Did You Know?

When you set time aside to understand those around you, it helps perpetuate a sense of belonging for all. When we are understood, we are happier and more productive. This is especially valuable in the workplace. Our 2023 Diversity Calendar and 2023 Interfaith Calendar both are powerful resources to use to not only learn more about those around you but to provide inclusive scheduling for your employees. To learn more about our DEI calendar, enjoy a free trial of our interactive DEI Calendar.

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

This harvest month continues your path towards diversity and inclusion in your workspace with our Diversity Calendar. The dog days of summer are upon us. Taking some time to learn about important celebrations and days in August allows you to further expand your cultural knowledge bank.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share August awareness days, August diversity days, August heritage months, August high holy days, August religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Celebrated Themes

National Black Business Month

Celebrate Black-owned businesses that make up nearly 10% of all American businesses. Seize the opportunity to support an underrepresented community, focusing on issues related to capital and generational wealth.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month

This awareness month is dedicated to learning about the neurodegenerative disorder that leads to involuntary muscle movements. Early detection is key for improved long-term health. Recent advancements have led to the first FDA-approved therapy for the disorder.

Monthly Standouts

Learn more about some of the most interesting days you should be celebrating this August with your staff.

August 1: Lughnasadh

This official Irish holiday and Gaelic festival marks the beginning of the important harvest season. During this time, grains are gathered to bake bread and fruits are preserved to be canned and used for the rest of the year.

August 4: Barack Obama’s Birthday

Born in 1961, the 44th president was the first African American elected to the office of president in the United States in 2008. Some of his accomplishments include ending the Iraq War, signing the Affordable Care Act, and implementing consumer protection acts.

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

This day celebrates all indigenous people across the world and promotes understanding, respect, and preservation of their traditions and cultures. It was first celebrated in 1995.

August 15: Feast of the Assumption

The Assumption is celebrated by Christians as the day when the Virgin Mary’s body ascended to heaven after her death. There is a tradition of blessing the summer harvest on this monumental holy day of obligation.

Learn more about religious holidays and celebrations with our Interfaith Calendar.

August 18: Lord Krishna’s Birthday

Lord Krishna is one of the most powerful incarnations of the Hindu god Vishnu. He is known as the god of tenderness, love, compassion, and protection. His birthday is celebrated annually with a festival.

August 26: Women’s Equality Day

This important day marks the adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment, which prohibits states and the federal government from preventing women from voting. In 1972, President Nixon issued the Proclamation for the first official Women’s Equality Day.

August 31: International Day of People of African Descent

A day designated by the United Nations to celebrate the contributions, achievements, and cultural heritage of people of African descent worldwide. It aims to combat racial discrimination and raise awareness of the challenges they face in society.

Explore more important August diversity days with our 2023 Diversity Calendar 2023.

Don’t Forget To….

Help your employees discover new things outside of their culture or religion with our Online Diversity Calendar. We offer information on different themes, awareness months, and celebrations throughout the year to include everyone on your staff in some way.

That concludes our August Diversity Calendar wrap-up. Get ahead on next month’s activities with our September Diversity Calendar 2023 blog. You can also learn about our online diversity training here.

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

Whether you’re working on your DEI strategy or simply wanting to learn more about the world, exploring different world religions allows you to become a more knowledgeable and accepting person. This blog post aims to educate and bring about peace and unity in the workplace and beyond.

Our 2023 Interfaith Calendar enables businesses and organizations to understand the timing of various religious holidays and festivals, facilitating more inclusive scheduling. For more insightful information about diversity days in 2023, visit our 2023 Diversity Calendar.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share July awareness days, July diversity days, July heritage months, July high holy days, July religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Please note that if a holiday begins the evening before, we will mark it with an asterisk (*).

Religious Holy Days in July

July 7* – Hijri New Year (Islam)

The Hijri New Year marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar year. It is based on the migration (or Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina. This migration holds great significance in Islamic history as it marked a turning point for the early Muslim community.

The observance of the Islamic New Year varies among Muslims around the world. It is generally considered a time for reflection and remembrance of Prophet Muhammad’s migration and the challenges faced by the early Muslim community.

How Do Sunnis Versus Shiites Muslims Observe This Day

Shiites typically start the new year with 10 days of mourning and fasting to remember Ali, Prophet Mohammed’s only grandson, who died during a battle between Shia and Sunni Muslim. This event marks the split between the two sects of the faith. Sunnis typically consider it a more low-key day with a focus on gratitude and spending time with family.

Learn more about Islamic holy days.

July 10 – Martyrdom of the B’ab (Baha’i)

In 1850, a Persian merchant named B’ab was shot by the order of the Persian Prime Minister. His killing remains a subject of controversy as he is considered a Manifestation of God by Baha’i followers. After his death, his remains were secretly transferred until they were finally laid to rest in the Shrine of the Bab, located in the Baha’i Gardens in Haifa, Israel. The anniversary of his death is commemorated on this day, one of the nine Holy Days of the faith.

July 21 – Asalha Puja (Buddhism)

One of the most important Buddhist festivals, it honors Buddha’s first sermon where he explained the Four Noble Truths: dukkha (suffering), tanha (craving), nibbana (a place somewhere between the two), and nirvana. This sermon laid the foundation for all of his future teachings. This festival is celebrated in countries with Theravada Buddhist communities, such as Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

Also known as Dharma Day, Dhamma Day, Asadha Puka, Asannha Bucha, Esala Poya, and Dhammasekya Boonsang.

Did You Know?

You can learn more about important diversity days and religious holidays on our 2023 Diversity Calendar. Our 2023 Interfaith Calendar includes all religious events and holidays, including those not mentioned in this blog. For a more comprehensive list that allows for inclusive scheduling, try out our DEI Calendar for free.

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

Summer is upon us, and July brings forth a captivating mosaic of celebrations. While the United States commemorates its independence, this month also offers a rich tapestry of religious and cultural events. Take time this July to learn about some other important celebrations across the world.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share July awareness days, July diversity days, July heritage months, July high holy days, July religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Celebrated Themes

Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride Month is celebrated every July to commemorate the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This month aims to change the way people think about disability and end the stigma that people with disabilities are limited in what they can do. Nearly 15% of the population has at least one disability in the United States.

Monthly Standouts

While there are countless religious holidays and cultural events to celebrate in July, here are some standout days to learn about from our Diversity Calendar 2023.

July 1: Canada Day

“O Canada!” This day commemorates the anniversary of the Constitution Act, which united the provinces and territories of Canada into one nation in 1867. Until 1982, it was known as Dominion Day. Similar to the 4th of July, citizens enjoy picnics and barbecues, festivals, and fireworks.

July 2: Thurgood Marshall’s Birthday

The First African American justice of the Supreme Court, Thurgood Marshall, was a civil rights attorney who led the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund. He played a crucial role in  the ending of racial segregation in 1954 with the Brown v. Board of Education decision, which rejected the “separate but equal” doctrine. President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him to the court in 1967.

July 6: Dalai Lama’s Birthday

His Holiness was first acknowledged as the reincarnation of his predecessor, the 14^th Dalai Lama, at the age of 2. The term “Dalai Lama” is given to the spiritual leader of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. He dedicates his life to serving his people. This year, he celebrates his 88th birthday.

July 14: International Non-Binary People’s Day

This day aims to raise awareness for issues faced by non-binary individuals worldwide. Many countries don’t legally recognize non-binary genders, making it difficult to obtain proper identification and passports. This LGBTQ+ awareness day is celebrated during Non-Binary Awareness Week. Celebrate this day by raising awareness and fostering inclusiveness with our online LGBT Training in the Workplace.

July 18: Nelson Mandela’s Birthday

The Father of South Africa was born on this day in 1918. He played a pivotal role in establishing democracy after serving 27 years in prison for opposing apartheid, a system of racial segregation. Mandela died in 2013 at the age of 95.

July 19: Hijri New Year

This day marks the start of the Islamic New Year, observed by most Muslims on the first day of Muharram, the first sacred month of the lunar calendar. The first 10 days of the month are significant Islamic holy days, especially for Shia Muslims, who spend the time mourning the death of Husayn Ibn Ali al-Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.

Keep up to date with more religious observances with our 2023 Interfaith Calendar.

July 24: Pioneer Day

The Utah state holiday celebrates the arrival of Brigham Young and Mormon pioneers to the Salt Lake Valley. Not only is it a state holiday, but also a special occasion for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While the day has strong links to the church, it is celebrated by all residents as it showcases the arrival of the transcontinental railroad.

July 26: National Disability Independence Day

The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed on this date in 1990 to create the first equality declaration for Americans living with a disability. It prohibits discrimination by both state and local governments and sets important accessibility standards for public places. It also helps protect these individuals from discrimination in the workplace.

Visit our Diversity Calendar 2023 to learn about more holidays and celebrations celebrated this year.

Don’t Forget To….

Make your workplace a place of acceptance with regular diverse celebrations. Help your employees to learn about new cultural celebrations throughout the year with our Online Diversity Calendar. Take some time to raise awareness for various causes celebrated monthly too.

This wraps up our July Diversity Calendar. For more information about religious observances, visit our Interfaith Calendar 2023.

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

June is packed with things to celebrate! In addition to being Pride Month, June also holds Juneteenth, a new federal holiday. Check out more monumental DEI days that you can celebrate through the month, including heritage months, birthdays, and critical anniversaries in history.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share June awareness days, June diversity days, June heritage months, June high holy days, June religious holidays, and religious festivals.

LGBT Pride Month

Pride Month has become more recognized in the past few years. It is currently celebrated during the month of June to remember the 1969 Stonewall Riots. To celebrate, hold an LGBTQ inclusion training at work, encourage rainbow clothing, explore our article on 10 Landmark Films About LGBTQ+ Stories to arrange a viewing, and decorate the office with rainbow decorations.

The LGBTQ+ community faces some of the sharpest barriers at the workplace. To succeed in business today, your teams need LGBT training in the workplace, on awareness, communication, respect, and more.

With its streaming-quality, bite-sized episodes, it’s uniquely designed for the Netflix generation. The program is interactive, and allows trainees to choose alternate endings, which ultimately boosts engagement. All you need is a computer, tablet, or phone to complete it.

Caribbean American Heritage Month

Caribbean American Heritage Month recognizes all those of Caribbean descent as well as the contributions they made to American society throughout history. You can celebrate this month by making a traditional Caribbean meal or checking a book out of the library about Caribbean history.

June 2: Indian Citizenship Act of 1924

The Indian Citizenship Act was passed on June 2, 1924. Congress granted citizenship to all Native Americans born in the U.S. Unfortunately, this did not grant the right to vote. This right was granted in 1957. Recognize the Indian Citizenship Act today by learning which Native American tribe is in your area.

June 11: Puerto Rican Day Parade

The Puerto Rican Day Parade is a huge celebration of cultural pride for Puerto Ricans in the United States. It seeks to recognize the influence and achievements of individuals from Puerto Rico. Each year, an International Grand Marshall is selected to lead the parade due to their positive contribution to the community.

June 12: Loving Day

On this day in 1967, the Supreme Court legalized interracial marriage. Loving Day is now a global day of visibility, education, and community. It’s often celebrated with backyard BBQs. Invite your neighbors over and celebrate community.

June 19: Juneteenth

Juneteenth is now a federal holiday in the U.S. It commemorates the actual end of slavery in the country. While President Lincoln had declared the end of slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation over two years before, there were still African Americans who had yet to learn of their freedom in Galveston, TX. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that federal troops rode into the city and ensured all slaves were freed.

June 26 to July 1: The Hajj

Key Muslim religious holidays include the Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca that all Muslims must make at least once during their lives if they are physically and financially able.. As it is one of the five pillars of Islam, it is a highly spiritual event. Once people arrive, they are in Mecca for a week and perform a series of rituals where each person walks counter-clockwise seven times around the Kaaba, which is a cube-shaped building. They also perform a series of other rituals.

Celebrate major religious holidays and foster inclusivity and religion at the workplace with our 2024 Interfaith Calendar

June 27: Helen Keller’s Birthday

Happy Birthday, Helen Keller! She was an individual who became both blind and deaf after suffering from a high fever (believed to be either scarlet fever or meningitis). Keller became a leading humanitarian and co-founder of the ACLU.

Final Thoughts

Everyone can find something to celebrate in the month of June! Whether you decked your office out in rainbow decorations for pride month or you hosted a workshop on how to be a better ally, keep the ball rolling into July.

Check back in for our July Days of Diversity and Inclusion

Which diversity days do you want to learn more about in the months to follow? Get a head start on the rest of the year with our Diversity Calendar 2024

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

Brighten up your workplace with some DEI celebrations this month. Easter, Passover, and Earth Day are all on the calendar this month! Think outside the box about how you can acknowledge the days significant to people’s personal, cultural, spiritual, and mental well-being. The following diversity calendar for April can help.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share April awareness days, April diversity days, April heritage months, April high holy days, April religious holidays, and religious festivals.

April 2: World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day is an opportunity to understand how those with autism can improve their lives. If you don’t have a loved one with an autism diagnosis, you may not have a strong understanding of how the world may be challenging for these individuals. Fortunately, this day seeks to raise awareness and improve their acceptance in society. We recommend celebrating by spreading kindness and uplifting those with autism by reading, watching, or listening to content created by them.

Explore more with our Healthcare Calendar 2023

April 5 to April 13: Passover

Passover is a major Jewish festival that celebrates the freeing of the Israeli slaves. If you don’t know the history of Passover, head to your local library to check out a book. Once you’ve read it, consider commemorating the occasion by attending a special family meal called the seder.

April 9: Easter

Easter is the most important Christian holiday of the year. Non-Christians often don’t realize this because there’s a lot more fanfare around Christmas, but this day celebrates Jesus’ resurrection. To learn more, watch films such as Ben Hur, The Greatest Story Every Told, Passion of the Christ, and Rise.

Celebrate major religious holidays and foster inclusivity and religion at the workplace with our 2023 Interfaith Calendar

April 22: Earth Day

Have you ever stopped to think about all that is possible because of the planet that we live on? If not, April 22^nd is the day to do it. Earth Day is a day observed by more than 192 nations. It honors the environmental movement that protects the Earth for future generations. On this day, bring seed packets to work for all of your employees to take home and plant in their own gardens.

Final Thoughts

April can be a dreary month. You’re slowly inching out of winter, but the weather isn’t yet nice enough to raise spirits. Get some dates on the calendar that employees can look forward to whether they involve a potluck meal, passing out cards, or donating to a cause on behalf of an employee’s loved one.

Which diversity days do you want to learn more about in the months to follow? Get a head start on next month with our May Diversity Calendar 2023, and the rest year with our Diversity and Calendar 2023

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

This is the month that spring rolls in, and as you (hopefully) welcome warmer weather, you can welcome more inclusion into your workplace. A great way to do this is by adding a few new diversity days to your workplace calendar. March celebrates everything from women to religious traditions to the elimination of racial discrimination. Here’s how you can celebrate.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share March awareness days, March diversity days, March heritage months, March high holy days, March religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Women’s History Month

Happy Women’s History Month! This month honors the role that women like Dorothea Dix, Susan B. Anthony, Jane Cooke Wright, Mary Tape and so many others have played in American history. Consider hosting an event at your workplace to celebrate women. You could invite female business leaders or nonprofit founder to speak as well.

March 8: International Women’s Day

This is another stellar opportunity to celebrate the women in your workplace. This day specifically highlights the political, cultural and economic achievements of women. To celebrate, you can do something as simple such as reaching out to a woman who has inspired you at work. A nice note letting a mentor, teacher or family member know about their impact can be so powerful.

March 8: Holi

Known as the “Festival of Colors,” this Hindu holiday celebrates the winter harvest and the onset of spring. Weather permitting, consider hosting your friends and family in your backyard or driveway with brightly colored decorations. Hindu families will often get colored powders to throw and smear on their faces during the festivities.

Keep up to date with other religious observances with our 2023 Interfaith calendar 

March 10: Harriet Tubman’s Birthday

Happy Birthday, Harriet! As an American abolitionist, she’s known for saving a reported 70 people through the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a network of African American and white people who offered shelter and aid to escaped slaves from the South. Download or borrow a library book to read more about her life.

March 17: St. Patrick’s Day

While St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated around the world, it’s primarily a celebration of the saint who brought Christianity to Ireland. Consider toasting a pint of Guinness or making a traditional Irish recipe to enjoy this holiday!

March 21: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

This day commemorates the date in 1960 that police opened fire on and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against “pass laws” in Sharpeville, South Africa. The day aims to convey a simple message — using your voice can be a powerful vehicle against racism. Your employees can honor this day by reflecting on biases in your workplace, and considering where they may have originated.

Looking for Diversity Training in the Workplace? Discover more with our D&I training suite

March 22 to April 21: Ramadan

Ramadan — an annual observance for Muslims worldwide — falls in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During this time, Muslims abstain from eating or drinking from dawn until dusk. If you’re not Muslim, but you want to see what Ramadan is like, you can try abstaining from eating from dawn until dusk and break the fast with an evening meal called iftar.

Final Thoughts

That concludes the diversity events for the month of March. Becoming more aware of the cultural and religious dates that others are celebrating will create a more aware and inclusive workplace.

Get a head start on next month with our April Diversity Calendar. Or enjoy the rest of the year with our 2023 Diversity Calendar.

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

The month of February is full of famous birthdays and history from the past. If you’re looking for a month to celebrate Black history and religious holidays that may be new to you, February is the month for you. Here’s what you should get on your diversity calendar for this month.

Also, explore our 2023 Diversity calendar as well as 2023 Interfaith calendar  to get a head start on religious holidays, heritage months, and monthly diversity program themes for 2023.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share February awareness days, February diversity days, February heritage months, February high holy days, February religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Black History Month

Congress designed February as Black History Month in February 1986 because it holds the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln. Both these men held to eliminate slavery. Throughout this month, make it a goal to do the following five acts.

• Visit 5 Black-owned businesses
• Learn about 5 noteworthy Black figures
• Donate to 5 anti-racism charities (even if it’s small amounts!)

Looking to foster a sense of inclusion and diversity at the workplace? Explore our article on the Benefits of Diversity in the Workplace

February 11: Tammy Baldwin’s Birthday

Happy Birthday, Tammy Baldwin! She’s a living example of why representation is important as the first openly LGBT woman elected to both houses of Congress. The United States is made up of people of various ethnicities, races, sexualities, backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, beliefs, etc. and our representatives should reflect that. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise!

View our list of recommended LGBT training resources

February 14: Frederick Douglass’ Birthday

Happy Birthday, Frederick Douglass! Douglass is a big name in abolition history. After escaping slavery himself, Douglass committed himself to pursuing freedom for everyone. You can learn more about his journey by reading his most famous autobiography called Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave.

February 15: Nirvana Day

Nirvana Day is the annual multicultural festival that commemorates the death of the Buddha once he reached Nirvana. You may also hear this festival called Parinirvana. Buddhists will celebrate Nirvana Day by visiting temples or monasteries and meditating. Take some time to practice meditation and reflect if you want to observe this day as well.

February 15: Susan B. Anthony’s Birthday

Susan B. Anthony is one of the most famous women involved in the suffrage movement. She was also an advocate for temperance, labor rights, equal pay for equal work, and abolition. Continue Anthony’s work by volunteering with a local women’s rights organization.

February 22: Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday is a day of fasting and prayer that kicks off the season of Lent in Christianity. Catholics celebrate Ash Wednesday by heading to mass and having ashes drawn in the shape of a cross upon their forehead. However, not all denominations practice this day the same way. Others may just have a day of reflection or fasting.

For more interfaith observances and events, explore our 2023 Interfaith calendar

Final Thoughts

Those are February’s upcoming diversity days. Which one are you most looking forward to celebrating this month? Which cultural celebrations and traditions are new to you? Look for our March Diversity Calendar to stay updated for next month!

Stay up to date with our entire 2023 Diversity Calendar!

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

Happy New Year! Let’s start the year off right by highlighting some diversity dates you should be aware of in the month of January.

In our monthly samples, we aim to share January awareness days, January diversity days, January heritage months, January high holy days, January religious holidays, and religious festivals.

Also, keep up to date with our 2023 Interfaith calendar for this year.

January 1: Emancipation Proclamation

On January 1, 1863, President Lincoln declared all individuals held in slavery to be free. This was the start of slaves being freed in the U.S.; however, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865 (now celebrated as Juneteenth) that slavery was ended across the Confederacy.

January 4: Louis Braille’s Birthday

Louis Braille created the popular tactile reading and writing system known as “braille.” The system has stood the test of time, and it has increased accessibility to the visually impaired.

January 6: Feast of the Epiphany

On the 12^th day of Christmas, Christians celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany. They believe this is when the three wise men arrived to baby Jesus after following the star. Around the world, countries celebrate this by dressing up like the three wise men and decorating floats.

January 15: Makar Sankranti

Our January diversity calendar includes the Hindu festival dedicated to Surya, the god of the sun. Hindus celebrate this day by having morning prayer and then engaging in kite competitions. Consider flying a kite of your own this day!

Discover more interfaith celebrations with our 2023 Interfaith calendar

January 16 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Of all the days on this list, you’ve likely heard of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. In the United States, it’s a federal holiday to celebrate one of the best-known American civil rights leaders. You can remember him by supporting Black-owned businesses or educating yourself on racial injustice.

Explore our latest article on changes in the DEI space, 2 years after George Floyd’s murder 

January 22 – Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year is the beginning of a calendar year whose months are moon cycles. In East Asia and Southeast Asia, the Lunar New Year is a festival that marks this time. You may also hear it called the Chinese New Year in China. This multicultural celebration is celebrated by offering gifts to others in red envelopes, lighting fireworks and firecrackers, and putting up decorations.

January 27: International Day of Commemoration in Memory of Victims of the Holocaust

The United Nations established this global holiday to remember the approximately 6 million Jews murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust. Head to the library on this day and check out a book or two about World War II. If you have kids, helping them to develop knowledge about this history and enhancing their awareness of genocide and war can help raise compassionate leaders for the next generation.

January 29: Oprah Winfrey’s Birthday

Happy Birthday to the Queen of Media! Oprah became North America’s first Black billionaire after being a talk show host and philanthropist for decades. Consider selecting a book from Oprah’s Book Club that pertains to diversity matters.

Final Thoughts

That wraps up our January Diversity Calendar! Check back in with us for our February 2023 Diversity Calendar. Remaining up to date on diversity days will enrich your life and help you be a lifelong learner.

For more diversity topics, see our 2023 Diversity Calendar.