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Multicultural Celebrations Calendar
2024-2025 Academic Year
This calendar is not an exhaustive list of multicultural celebrations or holidays observed. If we have not included a celebration of significance to you, please notify the Assistant Director of Multicultural Initiatives so that it might be included in future editions of this calendar.
While we have made extensive efforts to verify the accuracy of the information included here, some inaccuracies may remain. Please bring to our attention any you notice.
| Multicultural Celebrations Calendar ’24 – ’25 | |||
| 2024 | |||
| Day | Cultural Celebration | Explanation | Resources |
| August 9 | International Day of the World’s Indigenous People | The International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples is a global celebration of Indigenous peoples and their distinct and diverse cultures. The total population of Indigenous peoples around the world today ranges between 370 – 500 million, representing less than 5% of the world’s population. Indigenous peoples account for over 5000 unique cultures in different parts of the world and have managed to preserve their distinct cultural, economic, and political heritage, despite being a minority of the global population. | United Nations UNESCO Indigenous Peoples Day |
| August 12 | International Youth Day | The first official International Youth Day took place on August 12, 2000, and was organized by the United Nations to celebrate the contribution that young people make in transforming education, preventing conflict, supporting inclusion, social justice, and sustaining peace for younger generations. International Youth Day also serves to protect young people from the dangers of crime, poverty, social exclusion, and illiteracy, while also acknowledging the potential young people have to create a better future for themselves and the generations to come. | UN.org UNESCO |
| August 19 | World Humanitarian Day | On 19 August 2003, a bomb attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq, Sergio Vieira de Mello. Five years later, the General Assembly adopted a resolution designating 19 August as World Humanitarian Day (WHD). Each year, WHD advocates for the survival, well-being, and dignity of people and aid workers affected by crises. | World Humanitarian Day | United Nations World Humanitarian Day |
| September 15 – October 15 | Hispanic Heritage Month | Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of Hispanic-American champions who have inspired others to achieve success. The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover 30 days. The Latino presence in America spans centuries, predating Spain’s colonization of what is now part of the United States. Hispanic Americans have been an integral part of shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War. | Hispanic Heritage Month Latino Education |
| September 2 | Labor Day | Labor Day was first observed in 1882, during a time when many Americans worked long days in harsh and unsafe work environments for little money. Workers joined together to create unions – organized groups created to speak out for the rights of all members. On September 5, 1882, union workers in New York City took an unpaid day off work to protest their poor working conditions. Following the deaths of 13 workers during the Pullman Strike in June of 1894, President Grover Cleveland made reconciliation with the labor movement a top priority of his administration, making Labor Day a federal holiday in 1894. | Labor Day History | Union Plus US. Department of LABOR |
| September 5 | International Day of Charity | The International Day of Charity was established with the objective of sensitizing and mobilizing people, NGOs, and stakeholders all around the world to to help others through volunteer and philanthropic activities. September 5th was chosen in order to commemorate the anniversary of Mother Teresa of Calcutta’s passing. She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 “for work undertaken in the struggle to overcome poverty and distress, which also constitute a threat to peace.” | UN.org International Day of Charity › Reboot Education |
| September 11 | 9/11 | The International Day of Peace (“Peace Day”) is observed around the world each year on September 21st. Established in 1981 by a unanimous United Nations resolution, Peace Day is a globally shared day for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a culture of peace. Peace Day serves to “commemorate and strengthen the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.” | 9/11 TSA.org The 9/11 Terrorist Attacks |
| September 21 | International Day of Peace | The International Day of Peace (“Peace Day”) is observed around the world each year on September 21st. Established in 1981 by a unanimous United Nations resolution, Peace Day is a globally shared day for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a culture of peace. Peace day serves to “commemorate and strengthen the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.” | International Day of Peace United Nations Day of Peace |
| September 23 | Bi Visibility Day | Bisexual Visibility Day is a day to celebrate bisexual pride and to support those who are bi-identified or those who are still exploring their sexuality. It is also a day to recognize the discrimination that bisexual people still face in many areas of life, such as employment, education, housing, and health care. It is also a day to address persistent bisexual erasure that has been happening in many parts of society for many years. | #BiWeek| GLAAD Bi Visibility in The Workplace |
| October | Domestic Violence Awareness Month | Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) serves as a platform for organizations and advocates to educate the public about the signs of abuse, provide resources for survivors, and engage in discussions about the importance of creating safe environments. Events, campaigns, and initiatives during DVAM aim to empower survivors, honor those affected by domestic violence, and foster societal change to end this pervasive issue. | Domestic Violence Domestic Violence Hotline nctsn.org |
| October | Down Syndrome Awareness Month | Down Syndrome Awareness Month encourages education and understanding about Down syndrome, which is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, leading to various physical and cognitive challenges. Through events, campaigns, and social media initiatives, organizations and advocates work to celebrate the abilities of those with Down syndrome, combat stereotypes, and foster a more inclusive society where everyone is valued and supported. | Down Syndrome Awareness Special Olympics |
| October | LGBTQ+ History Month | LGBTQ+ History Month is meant to celebrate the achievements of 31 LGBTQ+ icons who are instrumental in advancing social acceptance and policy reform for the community. It began in 1994 when Rodney Wilson, a highschool teacher, believed we should have a month dedicated to teaching the history of the pride movement. October was selected because National Coming Out Day occurred this month. The initiative was backed by GLAAD, the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, the National Education Association, the Human Rights Campaign, and eventually the Equality Forum in 2006. | Lesbian Herstory Archives LGBTQ TIMELINE Outwords History |
| October11 | National Coming Out Day | National Coming Out Day is an annual observance held on October 11 that encourages LGBTQ+ individuals to come out and share their sexual orientation or gender identity publicly, fostering awareness and acceptance. Established in 1988, the day promotes the importance of visibility in the LGBTQ+ and helps combat discrimination. Rallies, discussions, and social media campaigns are organized to support those who choose to come out, emphasizing that coming out is a personal journey and should be respected as such. | hrc.org LGBTQIA+ History Month & National Coming Out Day |
| October14 | National Indigenous People’s Day | Indigenous People’s Day is a holiday celebrated in various parts of the United States as a counter-celebration to Columbus Day, honoring the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. Observed on the second Monday of October, the day aims to recognize and address the ongoing impact of colonization, promote Indigenous rights, and foster a greater understanding of Indigenous cultures and histories. Many communities use this occasion to educate others about the rich traditions, languages, and struggles faced by Native peoples, encouraging a more accurate portrayal of history and advocating for social justice and reconciliation. | White House Indigenous Day American Indian Edu |
| November | National Native American Heritage Month | National Native American Heritage Month celebrates the rich culture, history, and contributions of Native Americans. Established in 1990 through a congressional resolution, the month serves as a time to recognize the significant roles that Native Peoples have played in shaping the nation. Activities often include educational programs, cultural events, art exhibits, and community celebrations that honor the diverse traditions and histories of Indigenous tribes across North America, as well as raising awareness about contemporary issues facing Native communities. | Department of Native American Affairs Native American Heritage Month |
| November 1-2 | Día de los Muertos | Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican tradition celebrated primarily on November 1st and 2nd, honoring deceased loved ones. It blends indigenous cultural elements with Catholic practices, featuring colorful altars (ofrendas) adorned with photographs, food, candles, and marigolds to invite spirits back to the living world. Families gather to reminisce, share stories, and celebrate the lives of the departed, often participating in parades and creating elaborate sugar skulls. The holiday emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and death, turning mourning into a joyful celebration of life and remembrance. | DIA DE LOS MUERTOS | The Mexican Museum Day of the Dead History |
| November 11 | National Veterans Day | National Veterans Day honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The date commemorates the armistice that ended World War I in 1918 and has since evolved to celebrate the sacrifices and contributions of all veterans. Activities typically include parades, memorial services, and various public events aimed at recognizing the bravery and service of those who have defended the nation. The day serves as an opportunity for reflection, appreciation, and awareness of veteran issues, fostering a sense of gratitude among citizens. | History of Veterans Day Military.com |
| November 20 | Transgender Day of Remembrance | Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) memorializes those who have lost their lives due to anti-transgender violence and discrimination. Established in 1999 by transgender activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith, the day serves to raise awareness of the violence faced by the transgender community, promote advocacy for their rights, and foster a greater understanding of the challenges they face. Events typically include vigils, memorial services, and educational forums aimed at commemorating the deceased and fostering solidarity within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community. | Transgender Day of Remembrance Trans Day of Remembrance |
| November 28 | Thanksgiving Day | Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday celebrated primarily in the United States and Canada, as a time for families and friends to gather and give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. In the U.S., it occurs on the fourth Thursday in November, marked by festive feasts that typically include turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. The day often features parades, football games, and various community events, embodying themes of gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. In Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October, with similar traditions. | Thanksgiving Day Thanksgiving: From Local Harvests to National Holiday |
| November 29 | Native American Heritage Day (Day after Thanksgiving Day) | Native American Heritage Day is observed in the United States on the day after Thanksgiving, celebrated to honor and recognize the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of Native American peoples. Established by Congress in 2009, it aims to promote understanding and appreciation of Native American traditions and to acknowledge their significant role in American history. The day encourages events, educational programs, and cultural activities that highlight Native American heritage, fostering a deeper respect for the indigenous communities and their ongoing impact on contemporary society. | Native Hope Native Voices Native American Heritage Day |
| December | Universal Human Rights Month | Universal Human Rights Month promotes awareness and advocacy for human rights issues globally. It commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and promoting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background, and encourages efforts to combat discrimination, injustice, and inequality worldwide. | Human Rights Month Universal Human Rights Month |
| December1 | World AIDS Day | World AIDS Day raises awareness about the global AIDS epidemic caused by the spread of HIV, supporting those living with the virus, and memorializing individuals who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. Established in 1988, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS, promoting education, prevention, and treatment efforts while reducing stigma and discrimination associated with the disease. | World Aids Day CDC| World Aids Day |
| December10 | Human Rights Day | Human Rights Day commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. This day serves to promote awareness of human rights issues worldwide, encourage advocacy for the protection of individual rights, and reflect on the ongoing struggles faced by many in realizing their fundamental freedoms. Themes are often chosen each year to highlight specific human rights challenges, fostering global discussions on equality, dignity, and justice for all individuals. | Human Rights Day United Nations Human Rights Commission U.S. Dept. of State |
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| January | Poverty in America Awareness Month | Poverty in America Awareness Month is an observance held in January to draw attention to the issues surrounding poverty and economic inequality in the United States. This month aims to educate the public about the challenges faced by millions of Americans living in poverty, highlight the systemic causes, and promote efforts to address and alleviate these challenges through advocacy, community programs, and policy changes. Various organizations and outreach initiatives engage in activities such as events, discussions, and campaigns to raise awareness and encourage action to support those affected by poverty. | Poverty in America Alliance |
| January 1 | New Years Day | New Year’s, celebrated on December 31st and January 1st, marks the transition from one year to the next, often accompanied by festivities such as parties, fireworks, and countdowns to midnight. It’s a time for reflection on the past year and setting resolutions for the year ahead. Different cultures have unique traditions, including family gatherings, feasting, and rituals meant to bring good luck and prosperity. The celebration is characterized by a sense of renewal and hope, as people look forward to new beginnings. | Time and Date History of New Years Day |
| January 20 | MLK Day | Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed on the third Monday of January each year, to honor the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It celebrates his contributions to the fight for social justice, racial equality, and nonviolent protest during the American civil rights movement. The day often includes various activities, such as community service projects, educational programs, and commemorative events that reflect King’s teachings and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. | The King Center Martin Luther King Education |
| January 27 | International Holocaust Remembrance Day | International Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed on January 27 each year, commemorates the six million Jews and millions of others who were systematically murdered during the Holocaust by Nazi Germany and its collaborators. The date marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945, the largest Nazi extermination camp. Established by the United Nations in 2005, the day promotes education about the Holocaust, encourages reflection on the fragility of human rights, and underscores the importance of preventing future genocides through remembrance and awareness. | US Holocaust Memorial Holocaust Remembrance |
| February | National Black History Month | Black History Month is celebrated annually to highlight the accomplishments, history, and triumphs of the Black community throughout history. Originating from “Negro History Week,” Dr. Carter G. Woodson addressed the lack of recognition and inclusion of Black history in American education and culture. About 30 years later in the 1970’s, the United States officially observed February as Black History Month given that two prominent figures in the abolition of slavery (Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln) both have birthdays during this month. | Black History Month National Geographic |
| February 1 | National Freedom Day | On February 1st, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed a joint House and Senate resolution soon to be the 13th Amendment of the United States Constitution. On this day, President Abraham Lincoln abolished slavery. | Proclamation National Freedom Day |
| February 19 | Japanese Internment Camp Remembrance Day | On February 19th, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066 which allowed the U.S. Military to remove Japanese Americans from their homes and place them in concentration camps in desolate areas across the country. No Japanese Americans were ever charged or convicted – but were still ripped from their lives simply for having “the face of the enemy” during WWII. The Japanese-American community commemorates this day as a reminder of the cultural and historical impact the United States had on Japanese Americans. It is an opportunity to educate those on the fragility of civil liberties in times of crisis. | Day of Remembrance — JACL White House Gov |
| February 19 | President’s Day | Starting as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday, this day celebrates monumental achievements by U.S. presidents federally observed on Monday the 19th. | Census.gov usembassy.gov |
| February 20 | World Day of Social Justice | Officially observed by the United Nations back in 2007, World Social Justice Day aims to develop solidarity, harmony, and equity within and among countries. To achieve “a society for all,” governments are committed to promoting social justice at national, regional, and international levels. | World Day of Social Justice | DISD Live org |
| March | National Women’s History Month | Women’s History Month began as a national celebration in 1981 when Congress designated a week in March as Women’s History Week. After being petitioned in 1987 by the National Women’s History Project, congress passed a law designating the entire month of March as Women’s History Month. March helps to amplify the historical and cultural contributions that women, especially women of color, have made in the United States. | March is Women’s History Month Women’s History Alliance |
| March | National Social Workers Month | Established in 1984, National Social Work Month exists to uplift the social workers of our country and celebrate our constant contributions to society. Oftentimes, social work can be emotionally tiring, require long hours, and personally impact us. | National Social Workers Organization Social Work Month |
| March 8 | International Women’s Day | Global Day of Recognition for Women’s achievements throughout the world. | Women’s History Alliance International Women’s Day |
| March 20 | International Nowruz Day (Spring Equinox) | Nowruz is the Iranian New Year, also known as the Persian New Year, which marks the first month of the Iranian Solar calendar. Nowruz (meaning new day) is known to have been first celebrated by one of the world’s ancient Persian religions called Zoroastrianism over 3,000 years ago. International Nowruz Day is most celebrated in Iran, Afghanistan, Kurdish regions of Iraq, Turkey, India, Syria, and throughout Central Asia. Still celebrated today by over 300 million people, Nowruz Day signifies the renewal of nature. Those who celebrate affirm that life in harmony with nature is an inseparable link between constructive labor and natural cycles of renewal. There is an appreciation for the natural sources of life. | International Nowruz Day | United Nations Nowruz History |
| March 14 | Holi | Holi is a Hindu holiday that celebrates the burning away of evil spirits. Although its origins aren’t completely known, Holi is widely recognized as one of the most ancient festivals in India. Since before record or memory, Holi – or the festival of colors – has been practiced as the triumph of good over evil. There are many legends believed to have started Holi but one seemingly reigns true- that of the demon king Hiranyakashipu. The colors are meant to remove the social caste in India and help individuals see each other as one. Those who are non-Hindus, those who are secular in any religion, and even those who are enemies are believed to turn friends during the festival of colors. | Importance Cultural And Social Significance of Holi How to Celebrate Holi |
| March 31 | International Transgender Day of Visibility | Created in 2010 by trans advocate Rachel Crandell, International Transgender Day of Visibility was a response to the many violent stories about the trans community by the media. Rachel petitioned to create a day where we could celebrate the lives of transgender people and empower them to live authentically. We celebrate the joy and resilience of non-binary and trans folks by elevating their voices and experiences. Over 1.6 million people in the United States identify as trans, non-binary, or gender non-conforming. | Transgender Day of Visibility Human Rights Campaign LGBT Foundation |
| April | National Sexual Assault Awareness + Prevention Month | 2025 marks the 24th year that April has been officially recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness + Prevention Month (SAAM) here in the United States. Even so, SAAM’s history began in the 1940s and 1950s when movements for social change and equality started to gain momentum. In 1971, the first Rape Crisis Center was founded in San Francisco (also the first U.S. city to host Take Back The Night – an event specifically designed for awareness and prevention of sexual or domestic violence). After decades of mobilizing SAAM activists, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) was established in 1994 with the primary goal of establishing national provisions on rape and battery that focused on prevention. A few years later in 2001, April was nationally recognized as Sexual Assault Awareness + Prevention Month with its signature teal ribbon. Today, we take the month to spread awareness, advocate with survivors, be an ally in our communities, and share ways to help prevent this type of violence on anyone. | Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) National Sexual Assault Hotline: Confidential 24/7 Support | RAINN |
| April | National Arab American Heritage Month | National Arab American Heritage Month is said to have its roots in 1527 when Estebanico Azemmouri from Morocco and Antonio Bishallany from Lebanon arrived in America becoming the first members of the Arab American community. Arab American Heritage Month celebrates the contributions and cultural integration of Arab Americans in American History. Although not federally recognized yet, President Biden was the first to issue a proclamation acknowledging April as Arab American Heritage Month back in 2021. | Arab American Heritage Month Arab American Heritage Month |
| April 1 | International April Fools Day | April Fools Day still has unknown origins. Some historians believe it could have started back in 1582 when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. In the Julian calendar (Hindu calendar), the new year typically began around the Spring Equinox and April first, and so some people continued to celebrate during this time instead of January first – they were soon believed to be “April’s Fool!” During the 18th century, April Fools Day spread through Britain and Scotland. People were sent on phony errands known as “hunting the gowk” or “hunting the fool.” Today, April Fools is widely celebrated amongst friends and family members, between business and even in the news! All in the name of fun, APRIL FOOLS! | April Fools’ Day: Origins, Meaning & Hoaxes April Fools: The Roots of an International Tradition | Folklife Today |
| April 2 | SAAM (Sexual Assault Awareness) Day of Action | SAAM (Sexual Assault Awareness Month) Day of Action is part of a nationwide campaign observed in April to raise awareness about sexual violence and promote prevention efforts. It encourages individuals and organizations to participate in activities that foster education, support survivors, and challenge societal norms related to sexual assault. Through events, discussions, and advocacy, the day aims to engage communities in conversations about consent, respect, and the importance of believing and supporting survivors. | SAAM National Sexual Assault Hotline |
| April 7 | World Health Day | World Health Day marks the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. Each year a theme is selected to highlight a priority area of public health and concern. WHO is an agency of the United Nations that helps to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. WHO works with 194 member states across 6 different regions; they also have over 150 on-the-ground locations. | About WHO World Healthy Wikipedia |
| April 11 | National LGBTQ+ Day of Silence | Today is the Day of Silence — a national day of action pushing back against the silencing of LGBTQ+ youth and the erasure of their experiences. 82% of LGBTQ+ students experienced first-hand harassment or bullying in their school. 71% of students reported that their classrooms did not include any LGBTQ+ topics. More than 30% of LGBTQ+ students reported missing school because they felt unsafe or uncomfortable. Over half of all LGBTQ+ students of color experienced in-person victimization based on race/ethnicity. | Day of (No) Silence FAQ |
| April 15 | National ASL (American Sign Language) Day | On this day in 1817, the American School for the Deaf (ASD) opened in Hartford, Connecticut. There, teachers and students worked together, and by intermingling Native American Signs, French Sign Language, and even Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language, American Sign Language (ASL) was born. With time, more schools for the deaf were founded and ASL spread not only to those schools but to the world. ASL is used in the majority of Canada, and throughout the American continent, and has even expanded to Central Africa, West Africa, and Southeast Asia. | April 15th is National ASL Day – American Society for Deaf Children Celebration of ASL |
| April 22 | Earth Day | In January 1969, Senator Gaylord Nelson – the junior senator from Wisconsin – and many others witnessed the ravages of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Inspired by the student anti-war movement, Senator Nelson wanted to combine the efforts of student protests with the emerging public consciousness about air and water pollution. Senator Nelson announced the idea for a teach-in on college campuses to the national media and persuaded Pete McCloskey to serve as his co-chair. The first Earth Day was held in 1970, inspiring 20 million Americans at the time. By the end of 1970, the first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of other first-of-their-kind environmental laws, including the National Environmental Education Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the Clean Air Act. Two years later congress passed the Clean Water Act. | Earth Day 2025 Earth Day |
| May | Mental Health Awareness Month | Since 1949, May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States. It was founded by the Mental Health America organization (then known as the National Association for Mental Health) in order to raise awareness regarding the trauma and societal impact that mental illness can have on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children, families, and communities as a whole. | National Alliance on Mental Illness Substance Abuse and Mental Health |
| May | Asian American / Pacific Islander Heritage Month | The effort to officially recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander contributions to the United States began in the late 1970s and took over 10 years to make it a permanent month-long celebration. After proposing 3 different times, Asian American and Pacific Islander Week was recognized federally from the 1980s – 1990s. Under the Bush administration, the entire month of May was declared Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have contributed significantly to many facets of American culture and society, including science and medicine, literature and art, sports and recreation, government and politics, and activism and law. It isn’t widely known that Asians first migrated to what is now known as North America over 15,000 years ago through a land bridge between Asia and North America. | Asian Pacific American Heritage Month AAPI Resources |
| May | Haitian Heritage Month | Haitian Heritage Month celebration is an expansion of Haitian Flag Day, a major patriotic celebration in Haiti and the Diaspora. Haitian President Dumarsais Estimé started the Flag Day celebration with parades and cultural and athletic events in many cities in Haiti in the 1930s. President Estimé wanted to commemorate the creation of the Haitian flag annually on May 18 to encourage the development of patriotic sentiments among Haitian youth. Haitian Flag Day was also created as an official commemoration of the fallen soldiers who helped the United States and many other Western-colonized countries gain their freedom and independence. Besides the Flag Day celebration, the month of May carries a number of significant historical and cultural traditions that Haitians are proud to pass on to future generations. | Haitian Heritage Month – Evident Change Haitian Museum |
| May 5 | Cinco de Mayo | In 1862 the French continued to occupy Mexico with hopes to establish a monarchy under Maximilian of Austria and to curb U.S. power in North America. On May 5, 1862, a poorly equipped mestizo and Zapotec force under the command of General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated French troops at the Battle of Puebla; about 1,000 French troops were killed. Although the fighting continued and the French were not driven out for another five years, the victory at Puebla became a symbol of Mexican resistance to foreign domination. In the mid-1900s, Mexican immigrants celebrated Cinco De Mayo as a reminder of their rich culture and prideful victory. Sometimes confused with Mexican Independence Day (9/16), Cinco De Mayo is a day of rejoicing and celebration, reminding our migrant communities of their strength and power. | The REAL history of Cinco De Mayo A History of May |
| May 25 | Africa Day | Africa Day commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (now known as the African Union) on this day, May 25th, 1963. Formally known as African Freedom Day and then African Liberation Day, its origin lies in the collective African resistance to colonialism and economic exploitation. The day was, and is, intended to highlight Africa’s continued collective struggle against adversity. The African Union today strives to represent a vibrant continent of 1.2 Billion people. Today is a day to celebrate how far Africa has come against the odds and to recognize how much more needs to be done to ensure that all Africans can live healthy, happy lives. | Global Dimension United Nations: Department for Economic and Social Affairs |
| May 27 | Memorial Day | Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May, dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it emerged after the Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who lost their lives in battle. The day typically involves visiting cemeteries and memorials, placing flags and flowers on graves, and participating in parades and ceremonies. Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer and is often associated with family gatherings, barbecues, and outdoor activities. | Memorial Day Meaning PBS Memorial Day |
| June | Pride / LGBTQ+ Month | Pride Month is celebrated each year to honor the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan. The Stonewall Uprising was a tipping point for the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. The last Sunday in June was initially celebrated as “Gay Pride Day,” but the actual day was flexible. In major cities across the nation the “day” soon grew to encompass a month-long series of events. Today, celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts. LGBTQ Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally. | Our Timeline About the LGBTQ+ |
| June | National Caribbean American Heritage Month | In the 19th century, the U.S. attracted many Caribbean’s who excelled as craftsmen, scholars, teachers, preachers, doctors, inventors, comedians, politicians, poets, songwriters, and activists. Some of the most notable Caribbean Americans are Alexander Hamilton, first Secretary of the Treasury, Colin Powell, the first person of color appointed as the Secretary of the State, James Weldon Johnson, the writer of the Black National Anthem, Celia Cruz, the world-renowned “Queen of Salsa” music, and Shirley Chisholm, the first Black Congresswoman and first Black woman woman candidate for President, are among many. Since 2006, June has been designated as Caribbean American Heritage Month by Presidential Proclamation. The month-long observance promotes the rich culture and heritage of the Caribbean American people and their contribution to the United States of America. | Caribbean Heritage Caribbean American Heritage Month |
| June 19 | Juneteenth | Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people were freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the true end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday. | National Museum of African American History and Culture Celebrating Juneteenth |
| June 20 | World Refugee Day | World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honor refugees around the globe. It falls each year on June 20th and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of refugees, helping to mobilize political will and resources so refugees can not only survive but also thrive. While it is important to protect and improve the lives of refugees every single day, international days like World Refugee Day help to focus global attention on the plight of those fleeing conflict or persecution. | UNHCR World Refugee Day UN World Refugee Day IRC World Refugee Day |
| July | Disability Pride Month | Disability is a part of the rich tapestry of human diversity, and something that nearly all of us will experience at some point in our lives. It’s also a significant identity that defines how we experience the world. Yet people with disabilities have been marginalized and misunderstood for generations. All disabilities and their intersecting identities should be acknowledged, valued, and respected, and one way to do that is during Disability Pride Month. July marks the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark legislation that broke down barriers to inclusion in society. | Disability Pride Month Celebrating Disability Pride Month |
| July 4 | Independence Day | Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 by the Continental Congress declaring that the thirteen American colonies were no longer part of the British Empire but now the United States of America. | Library of Congress History of Independence |
| July 14 | International Non-Binary Peoples Day | International Non-Binary Peoples Day shines a light on those who identify as non-binary and celebrates the rich diversity of the community. The term “non-binary” describes someone who does not identify exclusively as a man or a woman. Non-binary folks may identify as being both a man and a woman or as falling completely outside these categories. Non-binary people show us every day that knowing one’s self and identity is a powerful thing that no one can strip away. | Stonewall Pride in Non-Binary |