PLTC’s Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee respectfully continues our monthly sharing of notable select holidays and other important dates for diverse groups. We hope you find this August Diversity Calendar helpful as you provide services to older adult clients in long-term care and other settings.
August 9: International Day of the World’s Indigenous People
On this day, people from around the world are encouraged to spread the message of protecting and promoting the rights of indigenous peoples.
August 9 (evening) -August 10: Al-Hijri
Hijri New Year (also called the Islamic New Year or the Arabic New Year) is the day that marks the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year.
August 16-August 23: Paryushana Parva
A Jain festival lasting about eight to ten days that is observed through meditation and fasting. Its main focus is spiritual upliftment, pursuit of salvation and a deeper understanding of the religion.
August 17: Marcus Garvey Day
Celebrates the birthday of the Jamaican politician and activist who is revered by Rastafarians. Garvey is credited with starting the Back to Africa movement, which encouraged those of African descent to return to the land of their ancestors during and after slavery in North America.
August 19: Hijri New Year
The day that marks the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year.
August 18-19 (sundown to sundown): Ashura
An Islamic holiday commemorating the day Noah left the ark and the day Allah saved Moses from the Egyptians.
August 22: Obon (Ullambana)
A Buddhist festival and Japanese custom for honoring the spirits of ancestors.
August 23: International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition
Also the anniversary of the uprising in Santo Domingo (today Haiti and the Dominican Republic) that initiated the abolition of slavery in the Caribbean. This holiday pays tribute to all those who fought for freedom and to continue teaching about their story and their values. On the night of 22 to 23 August 1791, men and women sold into slavery, revolted against the slave system in Saint-Domingue (now Haiti) to obtain freedom and independence. The uprising set forth events that eventually led to the abolition of the slave trade.
August 26: Women’s Equality Day
Commemorates the August 26, 1920, certification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution that gave women the right to vote. Congresswoman Bella Abzug first introduced a proclamation for Women’s Equality Day in 1971. Since that time, every president has published a proclamation recognizing August 26 as Women’s Equality Day. It honors the hard-fought victory of the women’s suffrage movement.
8/29-8/30: Janmashtami
Krishna Janmashtami, a Hindu celebration of Lord Vishnu’s most powerful human incarnations, Krishna, the god of love and compassion. Celebrations include praying and fasting.
Submitted on behalf of the PLTC DE&I Committee