December 1: World AIDS Day

This day helps raise awareness for HIV/AIDs. Hold a fundraiser in your office to help fight the HIV epidemic and raise money to find a cure. You can also pass out red ribbons. These are the universal symbol of support for those living with HIV/AIDs. Stigma and discrimination remain a reality for people living with the condition.  Together, we can stop HIV from standing in the way of health, dignity and equality.

 

December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities

All people, regardless of ability, deserve to be treated with dignity and given rights. The United Nations created the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 1992 to help people with disabilities participate without any barriers. Spend this day evaluating your workplace. Is it truly accessible to all? Ask your staff and see if they have any feedback they can provide on the topic!

 

December 10: International Human Rights Day (United Nations)

The UN established International Human Rights Day in 1948 following World War II. It uses the United States’ Bill of Rights as a model. 

 

December 16 to December 24: Las Posadas

The religious festival of Las Posadas is primarily celebrated in Latin American countries, Mexico, and Spain. Some Hispanics in the United States also celebrate this festival. The festival is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph traveling to various homes in the community that are designated as “inns.” After the reenactment, there is a celebration.

 

December 18 to December 26: Hanukkah

This is an 8-day, 8-night celebration in the Jewish faith honoring the triumph of their ancestors over the Syrian Greeks. To see the “Festival of Lights” observed, ask to join in a night of celebrations with a Jewish friend’s family.

 

December 21: Winter Solstice/Yule

The Winter Solstice is known as Yule to those practicing the Pagan and Wiccan faiths. The day marks the longest night of the year and the return of the sun. You can celebrate Yule by lighting a Yule log, making an evergreen wreath, having a nature-based treat, and decluttering your space.

 

December 25: Christmas

This is one of the most important Christian holidays that celebrates the birth of their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is also of cultural importance to those who do not actively practice the Christian faith.

 

December 26: Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is an 8-day celebration of life that is inspired by the African harvest celebrations. The holiday was created by an American professor of African studies, activist, and author, Maulana Karenga. It has been celebrated since the 1960s.

 

December 31: New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is one of the largest global celebrations because it marks the last day of the year in the Gregorian calendar, December 31, before the New Year.  It’s a symbol for starting over or for meaningful change that will keep you motivated for the months to come.  Count down to the New Year no matter where you are in the world.

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