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Diversity Calendar - April 2023

 National Stress Awareness Month

April is National Stress Awareness Month to raise awareness of the negative impact of stress. There is no single definition for stress, but the most common explanation is physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension. While not all stress is bad, long-term stress can have harmful impacts on physical and mental health. For tips to observe Stress Awareness Month and support employee wellbeing, click here.

 April 2: World Autism Awareness Day

Every April Autism Speaks celebrates World Autism Month, beginning with the United Nations-sanctioned World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. Throughout the month, they focus on sharing stories and providing opportunities to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism, fostering worldwide support. Click here for options to participate in World Autism Month.

 Locally, Perspectability is creating an inclusive environment where neurodiverse adults and choose to live independently, continue to their education, experience new opportunities, and grow their community. Support their work by visiting their local tulip farm, which opens April 2.

 April 5 to April 13: Passover

Passover is a major Jewish festival that celebrates the Hebrews’ liberation from slavery in Egypt and the “passing over” of the forces of destruction. Though the festival of Passover is meant to be one of great rejoicing, strict dietary laws must be observed, and special prohibitions restrict work at the beginning and end of the celebration. Click here learn more about this holiday and how to support your Jewish employees.

 April 9: Easter

For Christians, Easter is one of the most important holidays of the year. They use this day celebrates Jesus’ resurrection. For many employees, their religion helps define them as people. As employers, utilizing a more inclusive approach in your initiatives, you should recognize that employees come from a variety of faiths and traditions that mark special days at many different times. SHRM provides guidance on making your holiday policy inclusive and in celebrating holidays at work.

 April 18: Deadline for filing federal tax returns

Make this key deadline easier for your employees by sharing resources for tax preparation. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program provides employees and neighbors with free tax preparation and financial literacy. This program is designed for simple returns and for individuals who generally make less than $60,000/year. MyFreeTaxes.com through the United Way helps people file their federal and state taxes in all 50 states and has no income restrictions.

 April 22: Earth Day

Earth Day is a tremendous opportunity to educate your community about ways to take climate action at work, raise awareness about your sustainability achievements, and get buy-in from every level of your corporate hierarchy to reach your sustainability and zero waste goals. Celebrate Earth Day locally with the Earth Day Festival at the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks or Family Fun: Earth Day at Crystal Bridges.

 April 26: Administrative Professionals Day

Employers have an opportunity to recognize and reward clerical and administrative professionals for their devoted, valued work.  Simply saying thank you could go a long way. Click here for tips on effective recognition from Quantum Workplace.

 Additional Local Events

 April 8: Holi – The Indian Festival of Colors

Celebrate the beginning of spring and the end of winter with Holi – the Indian festival of colors! While traditionally celebrated in March, Northwest Arkansas’s Holi Festival takes place in April to make the most of springtime. Enjoy outdoor fun, a live DJ, traditional Indian foods, and more.

 April 29: Bentonville Together

Celebrate our multicultural community through Bentonville Together. This free, family-friendly event is a commemoration of the many cultures that call Bentonville home. Held at Orchards Park, the event will offer music, dancing, food, art, and activities.

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