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Celebrating Diversity, November 2024

Celebrating Diversity in November 2024 is a month of reflection, celebration, and learning as we honor diversity and recognize key observances that promote understanding, respect, and unity across different communities. Throughout the month, the United States celebrates Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the history, culture, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples. Join us in embracing diversity and fostering awareness, respect, and solidarity for all communities. Additionally, to see Ball State’s Inclusive Calendar visit here.

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Native American Heritage Month

Celebrating Native American Heritage Month

Each November, the United States observes Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing, celebrating, and honoring the rich cultures, histories, traditions, and contributions of Native American and Indigenous peoples. This observance traces its roots to the early 20th century when Dr. Arthur C. Parker, a Seneca Indian and director of the Museum of Arts and Science in Rochester, New York, advocated for a day to honor the first Americans. His efforts, and those of many others, gradually led to broader recognition, culminating in President George H.W. Bush’s official declaration of November as National Native American Heritage Month in 1990.

Throughout the month, communities across the country host a wide range of events and activities, including cultural festivals, powwows, art exhibits, educational programs, storytelling sessions, and community gatherings. Additionally, these events aim to highlight the diverse cultures of Native American peoples, fostering a deeper understanding of their histories, contributions, and the challenges they continue to face.

Native American Heritage Month offers individuals and communities an important opportunity to explore the unique traditions and customs of Native American and Indigenous peoples. It also encourages reflection on the historical and ongoing struggles faced by these communities. Additionally, it emphasizes the need to honor the sovereignty of Native nations and build respectful relationships between Native and non-Native communities.

For more information: 

U.S. Government Native American Heritage Month

 

Celebrating Diversity through Important Dates

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) (Novmber 1st to 2nd)

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a vibrant Mexican celebration honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed away. This colorful holiday, held on November 1st and 2nd, blends ancient traditions with modern customs. Families create ofrendas (altars) adorned with photos, flowers, and favorite foods of the departed, inviting their spirits to join in the festivities.

For more information visit: The Grace Museum

An American flag waves on a flagpole against a blue sky with a small white cloud. In the background, a forested mountain rises, partially obscured by trees in the foreground. Bold white text in the center reads 'Thank You Veterans.'Veterans Day (November 11th) 

Veterans Day honors military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is a federal holiday, observed on November 11 each year, commemorating the end of World War I when hostilities formally ended on November 11, 1918. It is a day to recognize the service and sacrifice of all veterans. 

For more information visit: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Veterans Day


International Day for Tolerance (November 16th) 

Proclaimed by the United Nations, the International Day for Tolerance encourages respect, acceptance, and appreciation of diversity in culture, belief, and ways of life. It aims to combat intolerance and promote understanding between different communities around the world. 

For more information visit: United Nations International Day for Tolerance

Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) (November 20th)

TDOR is an annual observance that honors the memory of transgender people who lost their lives to acts of anti-transgender violence. It was founded in 1999 to draw attention to the continued violence and discrimination faced by the transgender community. 

For more information visit: GLAAD Transgender Day of Remembrance

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November, 25th)Three women of diverse backgrounds are depicted in a stylized illustration with shades of purple and pink. They are shown standing together, symbolizing solidarity. Text at the top reads, "International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women," with the date "25 November, 2024" displayed beneath. A symbol of a female sign with a prohibition mark represents the theme of eliminating violence.

This United Nations-recognized day aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence and mobilize efforts to eliminate violence against women and girls. Additionally, it marks the beginning of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which runs until December 10 (Human Rights Day). 

For more information visit: United Nations

National Native American Heritage Day, November 29th 

National Native American Heritage Day is observed the day after Thanksgiving and honors Native Americans’ history, culture, and contributions. It encourages Americans to learn more about Native American history and reflect on the challenges Indigenous communities continue to face. 

For more information visit: United States Air force National Native American Heritage Day and Month