Happy December! You finally made it to the end of the year. Besides looking forward to a “Merry Christmas” or “Happy New Year” here are some of the other important multicultural events and diversity days that you should keep in mind.
12/1: World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day was created to unite everyone in the fight against the HIV epidemic. This month, increase the education and awareness of AIDS in your community. Some of the best ways to do this include:
- Advocating for safe sex
- Limiting your number of sexual partners
- Donating to organizations that offer free testing for HIV/AIDS
12/3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Created by the UN in 1992, this day promotes the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities. People with disabilities should be able to participate without any barriers — fully, equally, and effectively. One way you can positively contribute to this is by looking around your workplace. Is it accessible to all? If not, how can you help change that? Consider cultural competency training online.
12/10: International Human Rights Day
Every year on December 10th the UN celebrates Human Rights Day. This was instituted following World War II and looked to the US’ Bill of Rights as a model. You can celebrate this on your own by reading the full Universal Declaration of Human Rights online or with online diversity training.
12/16-12/24: Las Posadas
Las Posadas is a religious festival that celebrates events associated with the birth of Jesus. It’s primarily celebrated in Latin America, Mexico, Guatemala, Spain, and some Hispanics in the U.S. The celebration itself consists of a re-enactment of Mary and Joseph traveling to different houses that are designated as “inns.” The procession is followed by musicians, and at the end of each night, everyone gathers for a feast.
12/21: Yule Winter Solstice
The Pagan and Wiccan celebration of the Winter Solstice is known as Yule. It’s one of the oldest winter celebrations of the world as seasons and weather played a crucial part in their lives. This day marked the return of the sun when days would begin to get longer.
12/25: Christmas
Christmas is the Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus who is the Messiah. It is both a sacred religious holiday as well as a worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon. While it is a holy day for many, it is also a significant cultural component of many people’s holiday season even if they are not religious.
12/26-1/1: Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a celebration of life inspired by African harvest celebrations. The celebration was created by Maulana Karenga, an American professor of African studies, activist, and author, in 1966. He based it on the traditions from various parts of West and Southeast Africa.
Final thoughts
And that’s a wrap! You’ve just finished reading about all the diversity events in December 2021. If you’re not quite done. Feel free to continue with our complete 2021 Diversity Calendar.