Office for Diversity and Inclusion | Holidays & Observances

The first observance of the Federal legal holiday honoring the birthday of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was established on January 20, 1986. This holiday serves as time for Americans to reflect on the principles of racial equality and nonviolent social change espoused by Dr. King.

Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 27th, commemorates the millions of victims who perished during the Holocaust. It serves as a solemn reminder of the atrocities committed during World War II and the importance of never forgetting the horrors of genocide. This day prompts reflection, education, and commemoration, emphasizing the need to confront hatred, promote tolerance, and work towards a more just and compassionate world.

Black History Month (February)  was created to focus attention on the contributions of African Americans to the United States. It honors all Black people from all periods of U.S. history, from the enslaved people first brought over from Africa in the early 17th century to African Americans living in the United States today.

During Women's History Month (March), we celebrate the countless women who have fought tirelessly and courageously for equality, justice, and opportunity in our Nation. We also reaffirm our commitment to advancing rights and opportunities for women and girls in the United States and around the world.

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, observed in March, shines a spotlight on the achievements, challenges, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities. It serves as a platform to promote inclusion, acceptance, and accessibility, raising awareness about the rights and needs of people with developmental disabilities. This month encourages advocacy efforts, education, and support for creating a more inclusive society where all individuals can thrive and participate fully in their communities.

Ramadan is one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an, and fast from food and drink during the day and devote their time to special prayers, giving to charity, and engaging in acts of self discipline.

During Holi, typically in March, people joyously splash colorful powders and water on each other in the streets, celebrating spring's arrival and the victory of good over evil. Traditionally, the colors were derived from natural sources like flowers and herbs, representing spiritual meanings: blue for the gods, green for nature and happiness, and yellow for merchants. Holi brings communities together with colors and shared joy, fostering forgiveness, reconciliation, and the strengthening of relationships.

Earth Day, observed annually on April 22nd, highlights the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability. It serves as a global reminder to protect our planet and its natural resources for future generations. Earth Day inspires individuals and communities worldwide to take action, raise awareness, and advocate for solutions to address pressing environmental issues, fostering a collective commitment to environmental stewardship and a healthier, more sustainable world.

Arab American Heritage Month, celebrated annually in April, recognizes the significant contributions of Americans of Arab heritage to various fields including diplomacy, science, technology, art, and culture, highlighting their enriching influence on the nation's diverse tapestry. This commemoration serves to honor their achievements and promote greater understanding and appreciation of Arab American contributions to American society.

Lent is a significant Christian holiday observed in the weeks leading up to Easter Sunday, typically beginning on Ash Wednesday and lasting for forty days. It holds deep religious significance as a period of reflection, repentance, and spiritual preparation, mirroring the forty days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness. During Lent, believers often engage in practices such as fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, seeking to deepen their faith and draw closer to God in anticipation of Easter's celebr

Passover, a major Jewish holiday, is typically celebrated in the spring, usually falling in March or April. Lasting seven days in Israel and eight days in the diaspora, it commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, as recounted in the biblical book of Exodus. The holiday is marked by special rituals, including the Seder meal, during which the story of the Exodus is retold, emphasizing themes of freedom, redemption, and the enduring covenant between God and the J

The word Eid translates as 'the festival of breaking the fast,' marking the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. This festival enables families to gather together to exchange gifts and wear their finest clothes, in line with the tradition of the Messenger, Peace Be Upon Him. It is a joyous occasion characterized by communal prayers, feasting, and acts of charity, 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, observed each June, commemorates the 1969 Stonewall riots and advocates for equal justice and opportunity for LGBTQ+ Americans, striving to foster inclusivity and acceptance within society. Through various events and initiatives, it aims to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ rights and celebrate the diverse identities and contributions of this community.

Freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. This day came to be known as "Juneteenth," by the newly freed people in Texas.

The Fourth of July, celebrated as Independence Day, marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, signifying America's freedom from British rule. This holiday is observed with patriotic displays and festivities, symbolizing the nation's founding principles of liberty and democracy.

Labor Day, observed on the first Monday of September in the United States, honors the contributions and achievements of American workers and the labor movement, serving as a tribute to their social and economic achievements. It symbolizes the significance of labor rights and fair working conditions, highlighting the ongoing progress of the labor movement in advocating for workers' rights and well-being.

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15 in the United States, honors the contributions, cultures, and histories of Hispanic and Latinx Americans. This period provides an opportunity to celebrate the diverse heritage and rich cultural traditions of Hispanic and Latinx communities, emphasizing their profound impact on American society through various festivities and educational initiatives. It fosters greater understanding, appreciation, and recognition of the vibrant tap

Diwali holds great significance in Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, celebrated as the festival of lights, typically in October or November, homes are adorned with candles. It serves as a reflection on a rich cultural heritage and inspires people to cherish life's true values. Diwali festivities include worship, the sharing of sweets, fireworks, and the illumination of lights.

Native American Heritage Month, celebrated in November in the United States, pays tribute to the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It provides an opportunity to honor the diverse heritage and resilience of Native American communities, while also raising awareness about their histories, traditions, and ongoing struggles for justice, sovereignty, and cultural preservation. Throughout the month, various events, educational programs, and cultural activities are orga

Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration beginning on December 26th and ending on January 1st. It honors African heritage and culture, emphasizing principles such as unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Kwanzaa serves as a time for reflection, community-building, and reaffirmation of African identity, fostering a sense of pride, solidarity, and cultural continuity within the African American community.

Christmas, celebrated on December 25th, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ in Christian tradition. It holds deep religious significance as a time for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual renewal, symbolizing hope, love, and redemption. Beyond its religious significance, Christmas is widely celebrated as a cultural holiday, fostering traditions of gift-giving, family gatherings, and spreading joy and goodwill among communities worldwide.

Hanukkah, observed for eight days, commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem during the second century BCE. It holds great religious and cultural significance for Jewish communities worldwide, symbolizing resilience, faith, and the triumph of light over darkness. Families celebrate by lighting the menorah, exchanging gifts, and enjoying traditional foods, fostering unity and joy during this festive time.