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.