May: Dates of Significance

Each month, the Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee highlights dates of significance. These may include religious observances, clinical and medical awareness dates, important events or other significant moments within the community. See below for a broader list of additional dates of significance.

In May, we acknowledge Asian Heritage Month, Canadian Jewish Heritage Month, Vesak, Mental Health Awareness Week, National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, Mother’s Day, International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia and World Cultural Diversity Day. Below, read more about each date of significance, written by members of our IDEA Committee.

Asian Heritage Month:

Celebrated since the 1990s, Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the contributions and achievements of Canadians of Asian descent. During this month, we recognize the rich history of Asian Canadians, as well as the challenges many have faced.

In 2001, the Senate adopted a motion from Senator Vivienne Poy to officially designate May as Asian Heritage Month. This was her declaration:

“Diversity represents one of Canada’s greatest strengths, and we strive to ensure that all people in Canada have the opportunity to reach their full potential and participate in Canada’s civic life. Over the last two centuries, immigrants have journeyed to Canada from East Asia, Southern Asia, Western, Central and Southeast Asia, bringing our society a rich cultural heritage representing many languages, ethnicities and religious traditions. The people of these diverse, vibrant and growing communities have contributed to every aspect of life in Canada — from the arts and science to sport, business and government. Asian Heritage Month offers everyone in Canada an opportunity to learn more about the history of people of Asian origin in Canada and to celebrate their contributions to the growth and prosperity of our society. Thereby, we declare May as Asian Heritage Month in Canada.”

Each diverse and distinct community brings its own knowledge, skills and culture to the Canadian community. People of Asian origin have had an important impact on Canada’s history and identity since the 1700s, when 50 Chinese artisans helped build a Vancouver Island trading post. The Canadian Pacific Railway was built by 17,000 Chinese immigrants. This work was difficult and underpaid, and workers often experienced racism in many forms. The railway was, and remains, important to Canadian life as it allows both passengers and goods to be transported across the country.

Click here to learn more about key historical moments in Asian Canadian history.

Canadian Jewish Heritage Month

Canadian Jewish Heritage Month is observed each May to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Jewish Canadians to the country’s social, cultural, political and economic life. With the fourth-largest Jewish population in the world, the Government of Canada officially established Canadian Jewish Heritage Month in 2018.

This month highlights the rich history, traditions and achievements of Jewish communities across the country. It also serves as a time to reflect on the challenges Jewish Canadians have faced, including the fight against antisemitism and the preservation of cultural identity. Through educational events, cultural exhibitions and community celebrations, Canadian Jewish Heritage Month promotes awareness, understanding and appreciation of Jewish heritage and its role in shaping Canada’s diverse society.

Vesak: May 1

Vesak, observed on May 1, is a day marked by millions of Buddhists around the world. It recognizes the birth, enlightenment and passing of Gautama Buddha. It is a time to reflect on his teachings of compassion, peace and understanding.

Many communities observe the day with temple visits, candlelight ceremonies and acts of generosity. The day serves as a reminder that kindness and mindfulness can support greater harmony in daily life.

Vesak encourages individuals and communities to practise empathy, reduce harm and support one another. It is an opportunity to honour diversity, strengthen connections and reflect on how small acts of goodwill can create meaningful change. Through reflection, service and a commitment to peace, Vesak inspires people to help build a more compassionate world.

Mental Health Awareness Week: May 4 to 10

Stronger connections support better mental health.

Social connection is an important part of overall health and well-being, yet many people continue to feel isolated. From May 4 to 10, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is inviting people across Canada to Come Together. The campaign encourages small, everyday actions that build connection and support mental health. Stronger connections help strengthen mental health.

Together, communities can support better mental health, build healthier environments and help more people feel connected. Small actions can help children, youth and adults feel seen, heard and supported, which can improve mental health and well-being.

Awareness of mental health matters. One-third of Ontario parents report a child missing school due to anxiety. One in five children will experience a mental health challenge, and 17 per cent of children with mental health challenges are between the ages of two and five.

A list of resources for information and support is available below:

• Home – Children’s Mental Health Ontario
• Durham Region -Crisis Lines – Helplines – Mental Health Services
• Our Services | Canadian Mental Health Association Durham
• 988 Lifeline – If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: 988.
• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868.
• Check in on your Mental Health l CMHA National
• Mental Health Resources l CMHA National
• National Child and Youth Mental Health Resources

National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: May 5

The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People, also known as Red Dress Day, is observed on May 5 in Canada.

The day raises awareness of the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people. It is inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project, which uses red dresses to represent those who are missing or have been murdered. On this day, we honour their lives and remember those who have been lost.

Missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls (MMIWG) remains a serious human rights issue in Canada, rooted in systemic racism, colonialism and gender-based violence. Indigenous women are affected by violence at a disproportionate rate. It is estimated that more than 4,000 women and girls have gone missing or been murdered.

On Red Dress Day, people are encouraged to wear red and take part in community events such as vigils, workshops and discussions to help raise awareness of the ongoing MMIWG crisis.

Mother’s Day: May 10

Mother’s Day is celebrated in Canada on the second Sunday in May, which falls on May 10, 2026 this year. It is a day to recognize and honour mothers, grandmothers, caregivers and mother figures for the love, care and support they give each day. It is also a time to reflect on the important role they play in families and in the Grandview Kids community.

This year, we recognize the many mothers and caregivers at Grandview Kids whose support helps children and youth grow, learn and reach their potential. Their patience, advocacy and encouragement are an important part of each child’s journey, and their impact is seen every day across our programs and services.

Mother’s Day has roots in early efforts to recognize mothers and promote peace. Today, it is marked in many ways, including cards, flowers, shared meals and time together. While celebrations look different for each family, the day is centred on gratitude and appreciation for those who provide care and support in children’s lives.

The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia: May 17 

The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia, observed on May 17, highlights discrimination and violence faced by LGBTQIA+ people around the world. The date marks the World Health Organization’s 1990 decision to remove homosexuality from its list of mental disorders, a reminder that progress is possible when prejudice is challenged and human rights are defended.

The day encourages communities, allies and organizations to speak out against intolerance and to help create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. It is an opportunity to recognize diversity, challenge harmful stereotypes and support those whose voices are often silenced. Through empathy, education and solidarity, communities can help build a world where all people can live openly, authentically and without fear.

World Cultural Diversity Day: May 21

At Grandview Kids, diversity is recognized and celebrated every day.

Our community is strengthened by the cultures, perspectives and experiences that each child, family and team member brings. By embracing inclusion and learning from one another, we create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and valued.

On May 21, World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, we recognize the importance of acceptance, understanding and belonging for every child and family.

We continue to learn, listen and grow together.

Other dates of significance in May:

• Pediatric Stroke Awareness Month
• Neurofibromatosis Awareness Month
• Speech, Language and Hearing Month
• Vision Health Month
• Williams Syndrome Awareness Month
• Childhood Stroke Day: May 3
• GBA Plus Awareness Week May 4 to 8
• Cinco de Mayo: May 5
• Moyamoya Awareness Day: May 6
• National Child & Youth Mental Health Day: May 7
• World Lupus Day: May 10
• Apraxia Awareness Day: May 14
• International Day of Families: May 15
• Neurofibromatosis Awareness Day: May 17
• Victoria Day: May 18
• Global Accessibility Awareness Day: May 21
• Shavuot: May 22
• National Brother’s Day: May 24
• National Accessibility Week (May 24 to 30)