As 2020 draws to a close, we focus on the many traditions and celebrations that bind our communities together. Below are just a few holidays, observances and commemorations to help you celebrate equity, varying diversity dimensions and inclusion in December. Share your celebration with us on social media by using #IamEDI. We always welcome additions to our list -- please email us at edi@untsystem.edu.
Nativity Fast (Orthodox Christian) -- November 25 - January 6
A period of abstinence and penance practiced by the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Catholic churches in preparation for the Nativity of Jesus.
Advent (Christian) -- November 29 - December 24
A season of celebration leading up to the birth of Christ.
World AIDS Day -- December 1
World AIDS Day commemorates those who have died of AIDS and acknowledges the need for a continued commitment to all those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities -- December 3
International Day of Persons with Disabilities promotes full and equal participation of persons with disabilities and raises awareness about the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Christian) -- December 8
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a celebration by various Christian denominations of the belief in the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
International Human Rights Day -- December 10
Established by the United Nations in 1948 to commemorate the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The declaration is a "common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations, towards which individuals and societies should strive by progressive measures, national and international, to secure their universal and effective recognition and observance".
Hanukkah (Jewish) -- December 10 - December 18
A Jewish holiday that is celebrated around the world for eight days and nights. Hanukkah celebrates the victory of the Maccabees, or Israelites, over the Greek-Syrian ruler, Antiochus, approximately 2,200 years ago.
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Mexico) -- December 12
A religious holiday commemorating the appearance of the Virgin Mary near Mexico City in 1531.
St. Lucia's Day (Christian) -- December 13
A religious festival of light in Scandinavia and Italy commemorating the martyrdom in 304 C.E. of St. Lucia, a young Christian girl who secretly brought food to persecuted Christians in Rome while wearing a wreath of candles on her head so both of her hands would be free.
Las Posadas (Mexico) -- December 16 - December 24
A nine-day celebration commemorating the trials Mary and Joseph endured during their journey to Bethlehem.
Yule Winter Solstice -- December 21
Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year. A solstice is an astronomical event that happens twice each year when the sun reaches its highest position in the sky. A holiday celebrated by Pagans and Wiccans focusing on rebirth, renewal and new beginnings as the sun makes its way back to the Earth.
Christmas -- December 25
The day that many Christians associate with the birth of Jesus.
Boxing Day -- December 26
A secular holiday celebrated in the U.K., Canada, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and South Africa. It started as a day to give gifts to the household staff of Britain's upper classes, but has morphed into a sort of shopping holiday of its own. In fact, it's one of the most popular days to return Christmas gifts to the stores.
Kwanzaa -- December 26 - January 1
Started by Maulana Karenga in 1966, Kwaanza is an African American and pan-African cultural holiday that celebrates family and community.
Nativity Fast (Orthodox Christian) -- November 25 - January 6
A period of abstinence and penance practiced by the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Catholic churches in preparation for the Nativity of Jesus.