Acknowledging holidays and celebrations in June

In June, we acknowledge Shavuot, Eid al-Adha, Autistic Pride Day, Canadian Multiculturalism Day, and International Pride Day. Read more about each holiday/celebration below, written by members of our Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

June 11: Shavuot

Shavuot, celebrated in Canada and worldwide, is a major Jewish holiday that marks the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Observed fifty days after Passover, Shavuot is both a historical and agricultural festival commemorating the wheat harvest in Israel. In Canada, Jewish communities come together to participate in synagogue services, where the Ten Commandments are read, and engage in study sessions known as Tikkun Leil Shavuot, which often last through the night. Traditional customs include decorating homes and synagogues with greenery and enjoying dairy foods such as cheesecake and blintzes. Shavuot fosters a sense of spiritual renewal and community among Canadian Jews, celebrating their rich heritage and religious traditions.

June 16: Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide.  It is celebrated on the 10^th day of the last Islamic month, Dhul Hijjah. It commemorates the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to God, highlighting faith, sacrifice, and obedience.

This day is marked by special prayers, communal gatherings, and the sharing of meals. Families who can afford it perform the sacrifice of an animal, such as a sheep or goat, with the meat distributed among family, friends, and those in need. Eid al-Adha underscores the values of charity, gratitude, and faith, promoting a sense of community and solidarity. As an organization, we recognize this important day to foster understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural and religious practices among our members.

June 18: Autistic Pride Day

“Autistic Pride Day is a time to recognize that each autistic person has their own potential and that everyone, despite our challenges, struggles, or circumstances, must be there for each other.” — Bekki Semenova

This day is a time for autistic individuals to celebrate their neurodiversity. It is an event created by the autistic community to show the world that they are proud of being autistic and are not in need of a cure. It’s a day dedicated to inclusion and neurodiversity, embracing and acknowledging an individual’s values along with their differences.  

June 27: Canadian Multiculturalism Day

Canadian Multiculturalism Day, celebrated annually on June 27, is a day to honour and recognize the rich diversity that defines Canada. It celebrates the cultural heritage and contributions of the various ethnic groups that make up the Canadian mosaic. This day promotes understanding, respect, and appreciation for the different cultures, languages, and traditions that coexist in Canada. Multiculturalism means we celebrate not only the heritage of our family and community but also the backgrounds and beliefs of our neighbours.

The Government of Canada has taken significant actions to promote multiculturalism, including the implementation of the Multiculturalism Act in 1988, which ensures the recognition and preservation of diverse cultural identities. Additionally, the government funds numerous programs and initiatives aimed at supporting cultural festivals, language training, and community integration projects. By celebrating Canadian Multiculturalism Day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a harmonious and vibrant society that respects and embraces diversity.

June 28: International Pride Day

Pride Month, celebrated every June in Canada, is a time of celebration, a time to honour love, acceptance, and above all, inclusivity. Pride Day is celebrated annually on June 28.

As an organization dedicated to enabling children and youth to live at their full potential, we recognize the profound importance of creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and supported, regardless of their gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation.

For more information about Pride Month, Pride celebrations in the Durham Region or how to be an ally, please visit Durham Region’s 2SLGBTQI+ resource page. To read more about Pride Month, visit our other blog post.