Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

December Days of Awareness and Celebration

December is upon us, bringing a flurry of holidays, celebrations, and opportunities for reflection and connection. From acts of giving and honoring cultural traditions to advocating for inclusivity and human rights, December invites us to engage with our communities and the world around us. Let's explore some ways we can learn, grow, and spread joy this month.

Month of Giving

Month of Giving encourages acts of kindness and generosity to inspire people to unite in support of one another. From donating to volunteering, there are many ways to give back to your community and spread joy. Learn more here.

Special Education Day - December 2nd

Special Education Day commemorates the signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) into law in 1975. IDEA ensures that children with disabilities have equitable access to free, high-quality public education and the support they need to thrive alongside their peers. This landmark act reinforces the right to an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students. Learn more here.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities - December 3rd

International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 highlights the experiences, strengths, and contributions of people with disabilities, promoting inclusion and accessibility for all. This day recognizes both visible and invisible disabilities, with a commitment to advancing equal opportunities in employment, recreation, health, and overall well-being worldwide. Learn more here.

Inclusive Schools Week - December 5th to 9th

Inclusive Schools Week, first established in 2001 by the Inclusive Schools Network (I.S.N.), aims to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive education and how schools can foster environments that support all students’ learning and growth. This year’s theme is “Every Voice Matters”, echoes the fundamental belief that every individual has a unique perspective and contributes to the rich tapestry of our school communities. Learn more here.

National Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance - December 7th

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day on December 7 honors the memory of all those who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan in 1941. This tragic event resulted in over 3,500 American casualties, including both deaths and injuries. We reflect on this day to remember the bravery of those who served and the sacrifices made for our freedom. Learn more here.

Hanukkah - December 7th to 15th

Hanukkah, also known as Chanukah or the Festival of Rededication, is an eight-day celebration that honors the recovery of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Second Temple in 164 BCE. This festival emphasizes themes of resilience, hope, and community, marked by traditions such as lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, and sharing meals with loved ones. Hanukkah invites everyone to celebrate diversity and the enduring spirit of the Jewish community. Learn more here.

Human Rights Day - December 10th

Human Rights Day recognizes the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the U.N. General Assembly in 1948. As one of the world’s most translated documents, available in over 500 languages, it calls for the rights to life, liberty, dignity, and equality for all. Learn more here.

Las Posadas - December 16th to 24th

Las Posadas is a nine-day festival celebrated in Mexican and Hispanic communities that honors the journey of Mary and Joseph as they sought shelter in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. The term "Las Posadas" translates to "the inns" or "dwellings" in Spanish, highlighting the importance of hospitality and community support. This inclusive celebration features caroling, reenactments, and communal gatherings, emphasizing values such as compassion, kindness, and the joy of coming together to support one another. Learn more here.

Christmas Eve and Christmas - December 24th to 25th

Christmas Eve, observed on December 24, is the day before Christmas Day, which celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. This annual festival, primarily celebrated on December 25, holds significant religious and cultural meaning for billions of people worldwide. Christmas traditions often include the spirit of giving, exemplified by figures like Santa Claus, who brings joy by delivering gifts to children. The holiday encourages themes of love, compassion, and community, inviting people from all backgrounds to come together in celebration. Learn more here.

Kwanzaa - December 26th to January 1st

Kwanzaa is a celebration for families and communities to come together to honor African American culture and heritage while reflecting on the past. Established by activist Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa draws inspiration from African harvest festival traditions across various regions of West and Southeast Africa. This week-long festival emphasizes the values of unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, and cultural pride, encouraging individuals to celebrate their diverse backgrounds and strengthen their community bonds. Learn more here.

New Year's Eve - December 31st

New Year's Eve, also known as Old Year's Day or Saint Sylvester's Day in various countries, is celebrated on December 31, marking the final day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. This festive occasion brings together people to reflect on the past year and celebrate new beginnings. Traditions often include gatherings, fireworks, and countdowns to midnight, as communities and families come together to welcome the opportunities and hopes of the coming year. Learn more here.

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