Student Engagement & Belonging

Heritage Months

Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15 - October 15

Celebrating the cultural contributions and histories of Hispanic and Latine communities. This month-long celebration highlights the tradition, diverse culture and impact of people with roots from Central and South America, the Carribbean and Spain.

LGBTQIA History Month

October

Honors the history, struggles and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community. The month encourages education, inclusion, and celebration of diverse identities.

Native American Heritage Month

November

A time to honor and celebrate the culture, tradition and history of Native Americans and Indigenous peoples. It is a time for reflection of the struggle and injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and to promote a deeper understanding and respect for the enduring presence and contributions to American life.

Black History Month

February

A dedicated time to celebrate and honor the contributions, achievements and history of African Americans. This serves as an opportunity to educate, inspire and foster a deeper understanding of the rich and diverse heritage of African Americans, while also promoting the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice for all.

Women's History Month

March

Honors the contributions and achievements of women throughout history. It highlights the impact of women in shaping society, celebrates progress toward gender equality, and promotes awareness of the challenges women continue to face today.

Gaypril

April

"Gaypril" is an informal celebration during April that highlights LGBTQIA+ pride, awareness, and advocacy. Many schools and communities use the month to host events, such as pride festivals, educational workshops, and discussions on inclusion and equality, fostering visibility and support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

InspirAsian Month

May

A celebration dedicated to recognize and honoring the diverse cultures, histories and contributions of Asian Pacific Islander Desi Americans (APIDA). This month shines a spotlight on the rich tapestry of traditions, art, cuisine and achievements from the APIDA community.

Pride Month

June

Honors the history, resilience and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community. It commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, a pivotal moment in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. The month promotes visibility, acceptance and equality through parades, events, and educational initiatives, encouraging everyone to embrace diversity and celebrate all identities.

Heritage Celebrations

Diwalli

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated Hindu festivals. It makes the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. This five-day long festival is a time to celebrate wealth and prosperity and invite well-being for the coming year. It is a time of joy, togetherness and spiritual reflection, bringing families and communities together in celebration.

D铆a de los Muertos

Day of the Dead, or D铆a de los Muertos, is a vibrant Mexican tradition celebrated on November 1 and 2. This deeply rooted cultural event honors deceased loved ones with colorful altars, marigold flowers and traditional offerings like sugar skulls and favorite foods. Families gather to celebrate and remember those who have passed, blending rememberance with festivity. It's a time to reflect on the cycle of life and death, celebrating the enduring connection between the living and the dead.

Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is a major celebration observed observed in many East Asian cultures, marking the beginning of the new year on the lunar calendar. The festival typically lasts 15 days, starting with the new moon and culminating in the Lantern Festival. Is is a time for family reunions, feasting, honoring ancestors and welcoming the arrival of spring. Traditions include giving red envelopes with money (hongbao), setting off fireworks, and enjoying performances like dragon and lion dances to bring good luck and ward off evil sprirts.

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr is a joyous Islamic festival marking the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. Celebrated on the first day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan, it is a time for Muslims to come together for communal prayers, feasting and giving thanks. The day begins with a special prayer service and is followed by gatherings with family and friends, sharing meals and exchanging gifts. Eid al-Fitr is also a time for giving to those in need, reflecting the spirit of generosity and gratitude that defines the occasion.

Juneteenth

Juneteenth, observed on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to ensure the freedom of enslaved people, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth serves as a time to reflect on history, honor African American culture, and continue the pursuit of equity and justice.

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