Office for Diversity and Inclusion | Holidays & Observances

The first observance of the federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday was on January 20, 1986. It's a time for Americans to reflect on his principles of racial equality and nonviolent social change.

Holocaust Remembrance Day, January 27th, honors the millions lost in the Holocaust, urging reflection, education, and commemoration. It's a solemn reminder to confront hatred, promote tolerance, and strive for a more just and compassionate world.

Black History Month, in February, highlights African Americans' contributions to the U.S. It honors their impact from early enslaved people to present-day citizens, fostering awareness and appreciation for their vital role in American history.

Women's History Month in March honors women's relentless fight for equality, justice, and opportunity. It's a time to celebrate their contributions and reaffirm our dedication to advancing rights and opportunities for women and girls globally.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, in March, highlights the achievements and challenges of individuals with developmental disabilities. It promotes inclusion, acceptance, and accessibility, advocating for their rights and needs, fostering a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

Ramadan, a holy month for Muslims, is marked by fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It commemorates the Qur’an's revelation, with fasting from dawn to dusk, special prayers, charity, and acts of self-discipline, fostering spiritual growth and solidarity.

Holi, usually in March, sees people gleefully throwing colorful powders and water, heralding spring's arrival and the triumph of good over evil. Traditionally sourced from flowers and herbs, the colors symbolize spirituality. It unites communities in shared joy, promoting forgiveness and strengthening bonds.

Earth Day, April 22nd, underscores environmental conservation and sustainability, urging global action to protect our planet and its resources. It inspires awareness, advocacy, and solutions, fostering a collective commitment to environmental stewardship for a healthier world.

Arab American Heritage Month, in April, honors the contributions of Arab Americans across diplomacy, science, art, and more, enriching America's diverse tapestry. It fosters understanding and appreciation of their vital role in shaping American society.

Lent, preceding Easter, starts on Ash Wednesday and lasts 40 days, mirroring Jesus' fasting. It's a time for reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation. Believers fast, pray, and give alms to deepen faith and draw closer to God for Easter.

Passover, a key Jewish holiday, often in March/April, lasts 7/8 days. It celebrates Israelites' liberation from Egyptian slavery, detailed in Exodus. Seder meal recounts Exodus, emphasizing freedom, redemption, and the covenant with God.

Eid, "the festival of breaking the fast," concludes Ramadan. Families exchange gifts, don finery, and gather for prayers, feasting, and charity, echoing the Prophet's tradition. It's a jubilant time symbolizing gratitude, renewal, and spiritual growth.

(May) The annual celebration honors the many contributions and accomplishments of Asian Americans, Pacific Islander Americans, and Native Hawaiians.

Pride Month, in June, honors the 1969 Stonewall riots and champions equality for LGBTQ+ Americans. It promotes inclusivity and acceptance through events, raising awareness, and celebrating diverse identities and contributions within the community.

June 19, 1865: Freedom arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, as Union troops declared over 250,000 enslaved Black people free by executive decree. This historic day became "Juneteenth" for Texas's newly liberated.

Independence Day, July 4th, honors the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, symbolizing America's freedom from British rule. Celebrated with patriotic displays, it embodies the nation's founding ideals of liberty and democracy.

Labor Day, on the first Monday of September, celebrates American workers' contributions and achievements, honoring labor rights and fair conditions. It recognizes the ongoing progress of the labor movement in advocating for workers' rights and well-being.

Hispanic Heritage Month, Sep 15 - Oct 15, celebrates Hispanic and Latinx Americans' contributions, cultures, and histories. It highlights their diverse heritage and rich traditions, fostering understanding and recognition through festivities and education.

Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrated in October or November, holds deep significance in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism. It reflects on cultural heritage and values, marked by worship, sweets, fireworks, and illuminated homes.

Native American Heritage Month, in November, honors Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contributions. It celebrates their resilience and diversity while raising awareness about their histories, struggles, and ongoing efforts for justice, sovereignty, and cultural preservation through events and programs.

Kwanzaa, Dec 26 - Jan 1, celebrates African heritage and culture, focusing on principles like unity, self-determination, and collective responsibility. It's a time for reflection and community-building, fostering pride and cultural continuity in the African American community.

Christmas, on Dec 25th, marks Jesus Christ's birth in Christian tradition, symbolizing hope and redemption. It's a time for reflection and gratitude, fostering traditions of gift-giving, family gatherings, and spreading joy and goodwill globally.

Hanukkah, celebrated for eight days, marks the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. It's significant for Jewish communities, symbolizing resilience and the triumph of light over darkness. Families light the menorah, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional foods, fostering unity and joy.