January
Month-long observances:
National Mentoring Month
Poverty in America Awareness Month
Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month
National Freedom Day is an observance in the United States celebrated on February 1st, commemorating the signing of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, and honoring the importance of freedom and equality for all citizens.
Groundhog Day is a yearly event on February 2nd when a groundhog predicts the weather: if it sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter; if not, spring will come early.
Rosa Parks Day is an observance in the United States commemorating the civil rights activist Rosa Parks, who famously refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, on December 1, 1955. It is celebrated on February 4th in California and Ohio, and on December 1st in other states, honoring Parks' pivotal role in the civil rights movement.
Safer Internet Day is a global awareness campaign celebrated annually on the second day of the second week of February, promoting safer and more responsible use of online technology and digital platforms.
Lunar New Year is a major cultural and religious festival celebrated primarily by East Asian communities around the world, including China, Vietnam, Korea, and others.
Recognized by the United Nations, the International Day of Women & Girls in Science celebrates the achievements of women and girls in science and encourages their participation in STEM fields.
International Epilepsy Day is observed by individuals and organizations worldwide to raise awareness about epilepsy and support those living with the condition.
Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is celebrated predominantly in regions with Catholic traditions, including New Orleans, Louisiana, with extravagant parades, costumes, and parties before the start of Lent.
Ash Wednesday is observed by Christians, particularly in the Catholic and Protestant denominations, marking the beginning of Lent, a period of penance and reflection leading up to Easter.
Celebrated globally on February 14th, Valentine’s Day is a day dedicated to expressing love and affection, commonly celebrated with gifts, cards, and romantic gestures.
Nirvana Day is observed by Buddhists worldwide to commemorate the death of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and his attainment of Nirvana, marking his liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
International Childhood Cancer Day is observed by healthcare organizations, charities, and individuals to raise awareness about childhood cancer and support pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Random Acts of Kindness Day is celebrated globally by individuals, organizations, and communities as an opportunity to spread kindness and make a positive impact through small acts of generosity.
Family Day is celebrated in several provinces across Canada, including Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario, as a statutory holiday dedicated to spending quality time with family and loved ones.
President’s Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the third Monday in February to honor past presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
World Day of Social Justice, recognized by the United Nations, aims to promote social justice, equality, and human rights worldwide, addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination.
Employee Appreciation Day is observed by employers and organizations globally as an opportunity to recognize and show gratitude for the hard work and dedication of their employees.
Month-long observances:
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Ethnic Equality Month
Gender Equality Month
Greek-American Heritage Month
Irish-American Heritage Month
National Colon Cancer Awareness Month
National Kidney Month
National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness and Education Month
National Women’s History Month
Please note that while we have attempted to include all important diversity and inclusion dates in this calendar, we do not claim completeness and regret if an important date has escaped our attention. We appreciate any feedback or comments that contribute to completeness. Thank you for your understanding.
Let’s continue to recognize and celebrate diversity and inclusion throughout the year and work towards creating an inclusive environment for all.