DEI in Action: October Holidays and Observances
In October, we bring awareness to disability employment, global diversity, mental health, national indigenous peoples and LGBT history. Meanwhile Canada celebrates Thanksgiving, and Ireland and the UK observe Black History Month.
National Disability Employment Awareness Month
This observance was launched in 1945 when Congress declared the first week in October as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1998, the week was extended to a month and renamed. Today the observance calls attention to employment barriers that still need to be addressed.
Learn more about National Disability Employment Awareness Month here.
LGBT History Month
LGBT History Month is a U.S. observance started in 1994 to recognize lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender history and the history of the gay-rights movement.
Learn more about LGBT History Month here.
Global Diversity Awareness Month
Global Diversity Awareness Month is a time to celebrate and increase awareness about the diversity of cultures and ethnicities and the positive impact diversity can have on society.
Learn more about Global Diversity Awareness Month here.
Black History Month (Ireland and UK)
Black History Month was first celebrated in the UK in 1987. The month recognizes the impact of people from African and Caribbean backgrounds throughout history.
Learn more about Black History Month in Ireland and the UK here.
October 10
World Mental Health Day
First celebrated in 1993, World Mental Health Day increases public awareness about the importance of mental health, mental health services and mental health workers worldwide.
Learn more about World Mental Health Day here.
October 11
Canadian ThanksgivingCanadian Thanksgiving is a chance for people to give thanks for a good harvest and other fortunes in the past year.Learn more about Canadian Thanksgiving here.
National Indigenous Peoples Day
An alternative celebration to Columbus Day, National Indigenous Peoples Day gives recognition to the indigenous populations affected by colonization.
Learn more about National Indigenous Peoples Day here.
