It is often hard to remember all the holidays that happen in a month, especially in understanding what they are, who celebrates them, and how to acknowledge them in an inclusive way. As such, we at Plan to Action have curated a list of a few notable holidays in the upcoming month for your convenience with a brief overview of each. We have also included links to other resources if you would like to learn more about each holiday.
The month of November is…
American Indian Heritage Month is a month to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contribution of Native Americans. This holiday was established in 1990 to encourage a deeper understanding of Indigenous peoples’ traditions, struggles, and achievements.
Inclusion Tip: Take the time to learn about Indigenous histories, cultures, and contemporary issues and share this knowledge with friends and family.
Within the month of November…
Dίa de los Muertos (November 1-2, 2024) is a culturally significant Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones. Often, families create alters, or ofrendas, adorned with photographs, favorite foods, and personal items of the departed, inviting their spirits to return and celebrate. Dίa de los Muertos is a time for storytelling, sharing memories, and reaffirming the connection between the living and the dead, focusing on the cyclical nature of life and death.
Inclusion Tip: Provide a moment of remembrance during team meetings, allowing team members to share memories of loved ones who have passed.
Veterans Day (November 11, 2024) is a federal holiday observed in the United States on November 11 each year. It honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. The date was chosen to mark the armistice that ended World War I, which took effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. This holiday is a reminder of the dedication of military personnel, as well as for citizens to express their gratitude for their service.
Inclusion Tip: Create a “wall of honor” recognizing the veterans in your office.
Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20, 2024) honors the memory of those who have lost their lives due to anti-transgender violence and discrimination. This day was established in 1999 by activist Gwendolyn Ann Smith to raise awareness about the violence faced by transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals, as well as to advocate for their rights.
Inclusion Tip: Have discussions around the importance of affirming others gender identities.
Thanksgiving (November 28, 2024) is a national holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Originally a harvest festival, it is now a time for friends and families to come together, share a meal, and express gratitude for their blessings. In addition to the historical significance, Thanksgiving has become a time to reflect on the complexities of American history, including the impact of colonization on Indigenous people.
Inclusion Tip: Encourage open dialogue about diverse cultural traditions and histories by inviting others to share their own cultural backgrounds and traditions.
Native American Heritage Day (November 29, 2024) is observed on the Friday following Thanksgiving in the United States. It was established to honor the rich cultural heritage, contributions, and history of Native Americans. This day serves as an opportunity to recognize the significant impact Indigenous peoples have had on American society, while also continuing to raise awareness about the challenges they continue to face.
Inclusion Tip: Consider starting meetings by acknowledging the land that you are currently on (or include it in your email signature). You can use this website to learn more: https://native-land.ca/
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