To the UConn Community:

The Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights and the Provost’s Office would like to remind you of several celebrations, commemorations, and moments of raising awareness for members of our community during the month of March:

Heritage Month Celebrations:

Gender Equality Month: Gender Equality Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the social, political, cultural, and academic achievements of women while raising awareness about gender bias in or society. The month builds on the broader movement for women’s rights, including milestones like the establishment of International Women’s Day in 1911 and the formation of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in 1946. Gender Equality Month encourages individuals, organizations, and communities to take meaningful action toward a more equitable and inclusive world. 

Greek American Heritage Month: Also known as Hellenic Heritage Month, Greek American Heritage Month is timed to coincide with Greek Independence Day on March 25^th. It honors the rich contributions of Greeks and Greek Americans and celebrates Greek language, culture, and history. 

Irish American Heritage Month: Irish American Heritage Month, a tradition first observed in 1991 and accompanied each year by a presidential proclamation. Held in March to coincide with St. Patrick’s Day, the month recognizes the achievements and lasting impact of Irish immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

Women’s History Month: Thanks to the efforts of the National Women’s History Alliance, March is recognized as Women’s History Month. Commemorated at UConn as Women’s Herstory Month. What began as Women’s History Week in 1981 was expanded by Congress in 1987 into a full month celebrating the contributions and achievements of women throughout American history. The 2026 theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” highlighting women’s leadership in building a more equitable and sustainable world. At UConn, we celebrate women’s history year-round, especially through the Women’s Center and the Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) program.

Awareness Month/Day Celebrations:

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: The United States has observed Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month every March since 1987. Led by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), this month raises awareness about the experiences of people with disabilities. These are conditions that affect language, learning, physical ability, or behavior. The month also highlights the importance of full inclusion for people with developmental disabilities in all facets of community life. The 2026 theme is “We’re Here: Then, Now, Always”.

At UConn, we are committed to ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to programs, opportunities, and activities. This work is supported through several key initiatives and resources:

The Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, Education, Research, and Service (UCEDD), is part of the nationwide Developmental Disabilities Network. This center advances research, training, and community engagement. UConn also supports neurodiversity through Neurodiversity at UConn and the Center for Neurodiversity and Employee Innovation.  

The Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) offers a variety of programs and services for students with disabilities, including at UConn Health. Through MyAccess, students can easily request accommodations, and faculty and staff can efficiently coordinate to meet those needs. Faculty and staff can also request OICR’s training to deepen awareness of disability access and responsibilities. 

For employees, UConn works to ensure reasonable accommodations through OICR, the Human Resources department, and UConn Health’s Human Resources. The university also offers a Certificate of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies in Public Health. 

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Education and Awareness Month: Since 2003, March has been recognized as National MS Education and Awareness Month, led by the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. Multiple sclerosis is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and other parts of the body, affecting balance, vision, fatigue, and other functions. Nearly one million Americans are living with MS, and that number continues to rise. This month aims to promote a deeper understanding of MS and to help those living with the disease make informed decisions about their healthcare and well-being.

Self-Injury Awareness Day: This international observance is held annually on March 1 to raise awareness about self-harm and to break down the stigma and stereotypes that often surround it. First observed in 1999 by LifeSIGNS, the day encourages open conversation, education, and compassion for individuals experiencing emotional distress. The orange ribbon symbolizes hope and understanding for those affected. March is also recognized as Self-Injury Awareness Month in the United States and Canada. 

UConn students can access free, confidential mental health support through Student Health and Wellness (SHaW), including screening, short-term counseling, and crisis intervention. The BeWell@UConn Mental Health Support Line is available 24/7/365 at (833) 308-3040. SHaW’s Let’s Talk program also offers informal, confidential drop-in consultations with therapists at no cost.

UConn faculty and staff who are concerned about a student in distress can consult with SHaW’s Red Folder, which provides guidance on recognizing warning signs and connecting students to appropriate support.

UConn faculty and staff can access the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a free and confidential service providing assessment, brief counseling, and referrals for employees and their family members. The EAP is available through The Lexington Group and can be reached 24/7. UConn Health (UCH) employees may contact their EAP directly via the UCH EAP webpage, or by phone (860) 679-2877 or toll-free at (800) 852-4392.

If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988).

Cultural and Federal Holidays:

Zero Discrimination Day (March 1): A United Nations observance held annually on March 1, led by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). The day celebrates the right of everyone to live a full and productive life with dignity, regardless of age, gender, sexuality, nationality, ethnicity, or any other characteristics. It promotes inclusion, compassion, and a global movement to end all forms of discrimination. The butterfly is the international symbol of Zero Discrimination Day.

International Women’s Day (March 8): International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. First observed in 1911 and officially adopted by the United Nations (UN) in 1975, the day is marked worldwide with events, rallies, and campaigns advocating gender equality. The 2026 UN theme is “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” calling for action to dismantle structural barriers to equal justice, including discriminatory laws, weak legal protections, and harmful practices that erode the rights of women and girls. For materials and more information, visit the UN’s International Women’s Day webpage.

St. Patrick’s Day (March 17): St. Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated annually on March 17^th, the traditional death date of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. While the holiday has been observed in Ireland for over a thousand years, it has a long history in the United States as well. American St. Patrick’s Day parades date back to 1737. Today, the holiday is celebrated widely with parades, music, and cultural events, with the largest parade held each year in New York City.

Nowruz | Iranian New Year | Persian New Year (March 20): Nowruz marks the beginning of the new year on the Iranian Solar Hijri calendar, falling on the spring equinox, usually on or around March 20^th. Considered one of humanity’s oldest known holidays, Nowruz has been celebrated throughout Iranian history for thousands of years and is now observed by more than 300 million people worldwide. The holiday celebrates the arrival of spring, the triumph of hope over despair, and promotes values of peace, renewal, and solidarity between generations and within families. 

International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (March 25): Designated by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly in 2007 and first observed in 2008, this international day honor the millions of men, women, and children who suffered and died as a result of the transatlantic slave trade—one of the worst violations of human rights in history. Over the course of more than 400 years, more than 15 million people were forcibly taken from Africa. The date of March 25 marks the anniversary of the passage of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in the United Kingdom in 1807. Beyond remembrance, the day also aims to raise awareness about the ongoing dangers of racism and prejudice rooted in the legacy of the slave trade. A permanent memorial at the UN Headquarters in New York, titled “The Ark of Return,” invites reflection on this history and its lasting impact. To learn more about this day, visit the UN International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade webpage.

International Transgender Day of Visibility (March 31): Observed annually on March 31, International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) celebrates the lives, contributions, and resilience of transgender and gender-expansive people worldwide. Founded in 2009 by transgender activist Rachel Crandall-Crocker, TDOV was created in response to the fact that the only well-known transgender-centered observance at the time, the Transgender Day of Remembrance, focused on mourning rather than celebration. TDOV provides an opportunity to uplift transgender voices, raise awareness about the discrimination the community continues to face, and advocate for equal rights and full inclusion. At UConn, the Rainbow Center supports LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and faculty year-round. UConn Health also provides LGBTQIA+ services.

Religious Holidays:

Bahá’í Nineteen Day Fast (March 1 to March 20): The Nineteen Day Fast is observed annually during the Bahá’í month of Ala (Loftiness), the final month of the Bahá’í calendar. During this period, Bahá’ís aged 15 and older in good health abstain from food and drink between sunrise and sunset. The fast is a time of spiritual renewal, meditation, and detachment from material desires, preparing the soul for the Bahá’í New Year (Naw-Rúz) on March 21. 

Purim (Evening of March 2 to March 3): Purim is a joyous holiday that celebrates the strength, resilience, and survival of the Jewish people. It commemorates the deliverance of Jews in ancient Persia from a planned genocide ordered by the king’s advisor Haman, a plot foiled by the courage of Queen Esther. The major theme of the holiday is overcoming baseless hatred against the Jewish people. Traditional celebrations include reading Megillat Esther (the Book of Esther), sending gifts of food to family and friends, giving tzedakah (charity), enjoying a festive meal, and wearing costumes. 

Holi (March 4): Holi is a Hindu festival celebrating the end of winter and the triumph of love over evil. Originating in India and Nepal and now celebrated globally, Holi is known as the “Festival of Colors,” the “Festival of Love,” and the “Festival of New Beginnings.” The celebration typically spans two days: the first features a bonfire to symbolically burn away all the bad, and the second brings the iconic throwing of colorful powder dye into the air, covering all in attendance with vibrant colors. 

Hola Mohalla (March 4 to March 6): Hola Mohalla is a Sikh festival that commemorates the martial spirit of the Khalsa, as envisioned by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the tenth Sikh Guru. Traditionally following the Hindu festival of Holi, the celebration features displays of martial arts, poetry, music, and community gatherings. The festival fosters courage, discipline, and a sense of community service among Sikhs, reinforcing their commitment to justice and righteousness. 

Laylat al-Qadr (March 16): Laylat al-Qadr, also known as Laylatul Qadr or Shab-e-Qadr, means the Night of Power or Night of Destiny. It marks the night when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Jibreel (Gabriel). While the exact date is unknown, it is believed to fall within the last ten nights of Ramadan. Muslims observe this night with extended prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, and deep spiritual reflection. 

Feast of Saint Patrick (March 17): The Feast of Saint Patrick is a cultural and religious holiday celebrated annually on March 17, the traditional death date of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. While the holiday has been observed in Ireland for over a thousand years. This holiday has a long history in the United States as well, American St. Patrick’s Day parades date back to 1737. Today, the holiday is celebrated widely with parades, music, and cultural events.  

Ugadi (March 19): Ugadi marks the Hindu New Year and is observed on the first day of the Chaitra month in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Celebrated primarily in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, it is a time of thanksgiving, honoring Lord Brahma, revered as the creator of the universe, and Lord Vishnu, regarded as the preserver of life. The day is marked with prayer, festive meals, and new beginnings. 

Eid al-Fitr (March 19–20): Eid al-Fitr is one of the two major feasts Muslims celebrate each year. Translated as “the festival of breaking the fast,” it marks the end of Ramadan. After a month of fasting, Eid al-Fitr is a spiritual celebration of gratitude for the strength and endurance provided through the holy month. Traditions vary across cultures but often include special morning prayers, exchanging gifts, festive meals with family and community, and giving to those in need. 

Chaitra Navratri (March 19–27): Chaitra Navratri, also known as Vasant Navratri or Rama Navratri, is a nine-day Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her nine sacred forms. Beginning on the first day of the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra, the festival marks the arrival of spring and the Hindu New Year in many regions. Devotees observe daily prayers, fasting, and rituals honoring a different form of the Goddess each day. The festival coincides with regional New Year celebrations including Ugadi and Gudi Padwa and concludes with Rama Navami on the ninth day. 

Ostara (March 20): Ostara is a Wiccan and Pagan sabbat, one of the eight sabbats on the Wheel of the Year, observed on the spring equinox. It is a time to celebrate the renewal of life, the awakening of nature, and the balance between day and night as daylight begins to overtake darkness. Traditions often include decorating eggs, planting seeds, and honoring themes of fertility and rebirth. 

Naw-Rúz (March 21):  Naw-Rúz is the Bahá’í New Year, celebrated on the spring equinox, March 21. It immediately follows the conclusion of the Nineteen Day Fast and marks a joyous new beginning in the Bahá’í calendar. Naw-Rúz is a time of celebration, gratitude, and fellowship, observed with gatherings, prayers, and festive meals. 

Feast of the Annunciation (March 25): The Feast of the Annunciation is a Christian holiday celebrated on March 25 each year, also known as the Solemnity of the Annunciation, the Feast of the Incarnation, or Lady Day. It commemorates the visit of the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary, announcing that she would conceive and bear Jesus Christ. The feast is observed across Catholic, Orthodox, and many Protestant traditions. 

Rama Navami (March 26): Rama Navami is a Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of the god Vishnu. Falling on the ninth and final day of the Chaitra Navratri festival, it is one of the most significant celebrations in the Hindu calendar. Devotees mark the day with prayers, readings from the Ramayana, devotional songs, temple visits, and community gatherings honoring Lord Rama’s life as a model of virtue, duty, and righteousness. 

Palm Sunday (March 29): Palm Sunday is a Christian observance marking the beginning of Holy Week and commemorating Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where crowds laid palm branches in his path. Celebrated the Sunday before Easter, it is observed across Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant traditions with the blessing and distribution of palm branches, special liturgies, and processions. 

Mahavir Jayanti (March 31): Mahavir Jayanti is one of the most important religious holidays in Jainism, celebrating the birth of Lord Mahavira, the 24th and last Tirthankara (spiritual teacher) of the current era. Lord Mahavira’s teachings on non-violence (ahimsa), truth, and compassion form the foundation of Jain philosophy. The day is marked with temple visits, prayers, processions, and charitable acts honoring his enduring legacy. 

We welcome the celebration of each of these holidays on our campuses and encourage support for those requiring accommodations. You can find information and guidance about academic accommodations for religious observations on the Provost Office’s webpage. 

To see more information about resources and events happening this month and throughout the semester, please visit OICR’s events page. OICR writes these letters in collaboration with our partners across the UConn system. If we inadvertently omitted a cultural or religious holiday, please let us know by emailing us at diversity@uconn.edu. 

If you would like to receive our OICR Weekly Digest, where you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities, subscribe to the OICR Weekly Digest.

Sincerely,

Jeff and Pamir

Jeffrey F. Hines, M.D.

Vice President, Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights, UConn and UConn Health

Pamir Alpay, Ph.D.

Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

To the UConn Community:

The Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights and the Provost’s Office would like to remind you of several celebrations, commemorations, and moments of raising awareness for members of our community during the month of January:

Heritage Month Celebrations:

Muslim Heritage Month: In 2025, Governor Ned Lamont of Connecticut made a proclamation to officially recognize each January as Muslim Heritage Month. It is a time to honor and celebrate the rich history, diverse traditions, and significant contributions of the Muslim community to our society, recognizing their role in shaping our cultural, social, and economic landscape. This month provides the opportunity to educate the broader community about the history and contributions of Muslims, combat misinformation and stereotypes, and promote mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration among people of all faiths and backgrounds. During this month we honor the resilience and perseverance of the Muslim community in overcoming challenges and discrimination, and we stand together to affirm our commitment to combating hate, bigotry, and prejudice in all its forms. Read details about the proclamation.

Cultural and Federal Holidays:

New Year’s Day (January 1): This day celebrating new beginnings was first marked as a federal holiday in 1870, along with Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

World Braille Day (January 4): Celebrated on January 4^th each year, World Braille Day honors the legacy and contributions of Louis Braille, the inventor of Braille. This day also raises awareness about the importance of Braille as a tactile reading and writing system for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. It also serves as a reminder of the significance of accessibility and inclusion in education and information dissemination. To celebrate you can get involved in various activities and initiatives to support Braille literacy and inclusion such as supporting Braille organizations, spreading awareness, advocating for accessibility, and learning Braille. 

National Human Trafficking Awareness Day (January 11): Every January 11, the United States government recognizes National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. On January 11, 2011, President Barack Obama issued a Presidential Proclamation designating January as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Though slavery in the United States was officially abolished by the Thirteenth Amendment in 1865, the injustice of slavery still exists through sex trafficking, forced labor, involuntary servitude, forced marriage, and debt bondage.

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, there were more than 30,000 reports of human trafficking involving over 8,000 individual victims and survivors in 2024. Evidence suggests that people of color and LGBTQIA+ people are among the most vulnerable to trafficking, as are victims and survivors of domestic violence; victims and survivors of sexual abuse; those in unstable living conditions; runaways or those involved in the juvenile justice or foster care system; undocumented migrants; those facing poverty or economic need; and those addicted to drugs or alcohol.

For more information or to report suspected human trafficking:

• • Visit the Connecticut Department of Children and Families for Connecticut-specific resources and information
  • Call the Federal Government at 1-866-347-2423
  • Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text “HELP” or “INFO” to BeFree (233733). 

World Religion Day (January 18): This day is observed on the third Sunday in January and invites us to reflect on the importance of mutual respect, understanding, and harmony across religious and faith traditions. With more than 4,200 religions practiced around the world, this day encourages unity without erasing difference, recognizing that our varied beliefs can coexist and enrich our shared human experience. World Religion Day calls us to move beyond historical divisions and toward peaceful understanding, dialogue, and respect among all faiths.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (January 19): Since 1983, the third Monday of January has been set aside to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. No figure is more closely associated with the American struggle for civil rights than Dr. King, an influential leader who is best known for his work on racial equity and ending racial segregation in the United States. On this day we honor his life and his achievements, and we reflect on the work that still needs to be done to promote racial equity. Observing this holiday provides an opportunity for all of us at UConn to reflect on Dr. King’s life and legacy. We invite you to reflect on the importance of standing up for racial, social, and economic justice for all. From Dr. King, we learned that we can only reach our potential for justice when we address the needs of those who have been excluded from it historically, especially racially oppressed people. We recognize that we cannot truly have justice as long as there are groups for whom justice is denied.

UConn celebrates the work of Dr. King through the Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights’ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Living Legacy Convocation. This year’s convocation will feature musical performances, spoken word, and poetry from exceptional Connecticut and UConn talent at the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on January 30^th, at 6:30pm. The 2026 MLK Legacy Award recipients will also be honored at this event. This event is open to the public and free tickets can be reserved at Jorgensen’s beginning January 5. Special thanks to co-sponsors: Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts and the Provost Office.

National Day of Racial Healing (January 20): The National Day of Racial Healing recognizes that racial healing lies at the heart of racial equity. In 2022, UConn was selected as one of the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) Initiative campus sites. According to the TRHT framework, racial healing enables community, organizational, and systems transformation by restoring individuals and communities to wholeness; repairing the damage caused by racism; facilitating trust; building authentic relationships; and bridging divides. 

On January 20,^, 2026, OICR will host a virtual event in honor of National Day of Racial Healing: On Moral Wounds and the Urgency of Cultivating Moral Imagination, featuring Dr. Mays Imad from 12:00pm – 1:00pm. View RSVP form.

 

International Day of Education (January 24): was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018 to recognize education as a fundamental human right and a powerful driver of peace, equity, and sustainable development worldwide. Observed each year on January 24, the day calls attention to education’s essential role in shaping inclusive societies and expanding opportunity for individuals and communities alike.

Despite global progress, significant challenges remain. An estimated 244 million children and youth worldwide are out of school, and more than 617 million young people lack basic literacy and numeracy skills. Additionally, hundreds of millions of adults remain illiterate, and millions of girls continue to be denied access to education. Without sustained action, the United Nations warns that by 2030, hundreds of millions of young people may leave school without the skills needed to secure meaningful employment.

Organized by UNESCO in collaboration with global education partners, International Day of Education urges governments, institutions, communities, and individuals to protect and advance education as a shared responsibility. The day invites reflection, dialogue, and action–whether through awareness efforts, community programs, or renewed commitments to ensuring equitable, inclusive, and high-quality education for all.

Holocaust Memorial Day (January 27): This day marks the anniversary of the 1945 liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camps. In 2005, the United Nations General Assembly designated this date as International Holocaust Remembrance Day to honor the victims of the Holocaust and to reaffirm a global commitment to remembrance and education. At Auschwitz-Birkenau alone, an estimated 1.1 million people were murdered, including approximately one million Jewish people. These atrocities were part of a broader, systematic campaign of genocide carried out by the Nazi regime, which resulted in the murder of six million Jewish people—nearly two-thirds of the world’s Jewish population at the time—along with millions of others targeted for persecution. On January 27, we remember the victims, honor the survivors, and reaffirm our responsibility to confront antisemitism, hatred, and genocide in all forms. Remembrance is not only an act of memory, but a commitment to vigilance, so that such violence is never repeated.

OICR believes that the first step to stopping this violence from happening again is to stand against antisemitism in all forms. We encourage all members of the UConn community to confront antisemitism, racism, and discrimination, to actively speak out and denounce it, and to create a caring community that celebrates diversity. For more resources on confronting antisemitism, please check out:

• • The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which is committed to stopping the defamation of Jewish people and to securing justice and fair treatment for all.
  • Antisemitism Education video on YouTube
  • Antisemitism: How the Origins of History’s Oldest Hatred Still Hold Sway Today via The Conversation
  • A wealth of resources and events from UConn’s Center for Judaic Studies and Contemporary Jewish Life.

OICR and the Provost’s Office are committed to combating antisemitism in our campus spaces. We are currently engaged in two long-term programs to combat antisemitism: a Campus Climate Initiative in partnership with Hillel and the Academic Engagement Network. These two projects are helping UConn build the infrastructure needed to eliminate antisemitism and other forms of identity-based harassment and violence, including expanding partnerships across the university system. We continue to participate in the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) Campus Center Initiative, which will help build the infrastructure for addressing identity-based bias and creating space for members of our community to process and heal from hateful incidents.

Religious Holidays:

Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (January 1): This Catholic holiday is a major feast honoring Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus. It serves as a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics and is linked to the Church’s World Day of Peace. This day highlights Mary’s faith, her obedience to God’s will, and the divine-human nature of Jesus, emphasizing her unique motherhood. 

Oshōgatsu (January 1): The Japanese New Year is known as Japan’s most important holiday and is marked by a rich set of customs and traditions. Rooted primarily in Shinto and Buddhist practices, these rituals are intended to welcome good fortune, health, and renewal in the year ahead. From thorough year-end cleaning to symbolic foods, decorations, and visits to shrines, Oshōgatsu is both a celebration and a moment of reflection.

Mahayana New Year (January 3): Mahayana New Year, also known as Vesak, is a traditional Buddhist holiday that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. It is a time to reflect on the past year, and to look forward to the new one with hope and positivity. This holiday is normally celebrated on the Full Moon of the first month – in many countries following the Gregorian calendar. 

Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh Sahib (January 5): This day is celebrated as the birth anniversary of the tenth Guru, who instituted the Five Ks and established the Order of the Khalsa on Vaisakhi (Baisakhi). On his birthday, historical lectures are conducted, and poems are recited in praise of the Guru. Special dishes that are unique to this occasion are prepared and served during the festivities.

Epiphany | Theophany | Three Kings Day (January 6): Epiphany is a Christian feast day celebrating the revelation of Jesus Christ as God incarnate. In Western Christian traditions, this feast commemorates the visit of Three Wise Men to Bethlehem. Epiphany is the twelfth day of Christmas, and the night before is commonly referred to as Twelfth Night. In Eastern Christian traditions, this feast is known as Theophany and commemorates the revelation of Christ’s divinity through his baptism and his first miracle.

In Latin American countries, this day is commemorated as Three Kings Day, El Día de Reyes or El Dia de los Tres Reyes Magos. In addition to gift-giving and parades on this day, this day is often marked with Rosca de Reyes, a cake that signifies a king’s crown. Inside this cake is a small plastic figurine representing the baby Jesus; whoever finds it is obligated to host the upcoming Día de la Candelaria(Candlemas Day) on February 2nd.

Orthodox Christmas (January 7): Orthodox Christmas, also known as “Old Christmas,” is celebrated on January 7 in accordance with the Julian calendar. Christmas is celebrated on this day by practitioners of Orthodox faiths, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, including Greece, Russia, Serbia, and Ukraine, as well as in communities in Egypt, Ethiopia, and elsewhere. Traditions vary by location and culture, but Old Christmas is typically seen as a time for peace, unity, reflection, and healing. 

Lohri (January 13): A Sikh and Hindu festival that is observed as a festival of light and harvest. The bonfire is the center piece of this celebration. 

Makar Sankranti (January 14): Makar Sankranti, often called “Uttarayana,” “Makar,” or “Sankranti,” is a Hindu observance and festival that celebrates the sun’s journey from the Southern to the Northern hemisphere. Dedicated to the sun deity, Surya, Makar marks a new beginning. Makar is a day for thanking Mother Earth or nature as the winter starts to recede to spring; participants spread good will, peace, and prosperity by giving each other presents, especially sweets. Makar is typically observed on January 14 but is observed on January 15 during leap years. 

For Sikhs, Makar Sankranti is also known as Maghi, which commemorates the martyrdom of the Chali Mukte (Forty Liberated Ones), who sacrificed their lives in battle to defend Guru Gobind Singh Ji against imperial forces. This is a day for holy baths in rivers, especially sacred waters, believed to cleanse sins and celebrated with prayers, community gatherings, and traditional food. 

Orthodox New Year (January 14): Orthodox New Year, also known as “Old New Year,” is celebrated on the first day of the Julian calendar, falling on January 14 of the Gregorian calendar. This day is celebrated by practitioners of Orthodox faiths, especially in Russia, Serbia, North Macedonia, and other Eastern European countries, though it is not a public holiday in those countries. Celebrations vary by location, but typical traditions involve a festive dinner, music, dancing, and meditation about personal New Year’s resolutions.

Isra and Mi’raj (January 15-16): Isra and Mi’raj are two parts of a night journey that Muslims believe the Prophet Muhammad took in a single night around 621 AD. First from Mecca to Jerusalem, and then from Jerusalem to the heavens. These events are considered to be a miraculous occurrence and a sign of the Prophet’s connection to Allah. 

We welcome the celebration of each of these holidays on our campuses and encourage support for those requiring accommodations. You can find information and guidance about academic accommodations for religious observations on the Provost Office’s webpage. 

To see more information about resources and events happening this month and throughout the semester, please visit our events page at www.diversity.uconn.edu/events. OICR writes these letters in collaboration with our partners across the UConn system. If we inadvertently omitted a cultural or religious holiday, please let us know by emailing us at diversity@uconn.edu. 

If you would like to receive our OICR Weekly Digest, where you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities, subscribe to the OICR Weekly Digest.

 

Sincerely,

Jeff and Pamir

 

Jeffrey F. Hines, M.D.

Vice President, Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights, UConn and UConn Health

 

Pamir Alpay, Ph.D.

Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

 

To the UConn Community:

The Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights and the Provost’s Office would like to remind you of several celebrations, commemorations, and moments of raising awareness for members of our community during the month of December:

Cultural and Federal Holidays:

World AIDS Day (December 1): Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day, usually commemorated by wearing a red ribbon. This day reminds us of the ongoing crisis of AIDS: more than 35 million people have died from HIV- or AIDS-related illnesses since the virus was first identified in 1984, and an estimated 38 million people worldwide have the virus today. The day offers an opportunity to commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses and to support those currently living with HIV, as well as to raise awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education. This year’s theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.” This theme highlights the impact of funding cuts from international donors and showcases the resilience of countries and communities stepping up to protect progress and drive the HIV response forward. This year’s theme is a call for sustained political leadership, international cooperation, and human-rights centered approaches to end AIDS by 2030.

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (December 3): First recognized by the United Nations in 1992, International Day of Persons with Disabilities promotes the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities and raises awareness about the political, economic, social, and cultural barriers to inclusion faced by those impacted by disability. It is important to remember that not all forms of disability are visible from the outside; some physical, mental, or neurological conditions that can challenge a person’s movements, senses, or activities are not obvious to others, which can lead to misperceptions, misunderstandings, and judgements. The theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities is “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” which builds directly on the momentum of the Second World Summit for Social Development, held in Doha this past November, where world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to building a just, inclusive, and equitable world.

UConn has a strong commitment to expanding inclusion for people with disabilities through the Center for Students with Disabilities. UConn also promotes awareness through academic programs like the Certificate of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies in Public Health and the Human Development and Family Sciences concentration in Families and Disabilities, and academic centers like the Center for Excellence in the Study of Developmental Disabilities and the Collaborative on Postsecondary Education and Disability, which offer courses in Disability Studies in Storrs and Waterbury.

Human Rights Day (December 10): Every year, we honor the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948, the Declaration establishes equal dignity and worth for every person and proclaims the inalienable rights that every human being is entitled to, regardless of race, class, gender, sexuality, ability, national origin, language, political orientation, or any other status. Every December 10, we acknowledge the importance of human rights. This year the campaign is “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials” an initiative created with The Everyday Essentials Film Tour organized in partnership with the International Film Festival and Forum for Human Rights to host public screenings and debates on a variety of human rights topics between November and December 2025 (check out their trailer here).

UConn has a strong legacy of working to advance human rights. The Human Rights Institute serves as a focal point for interdisciplinary educational and research programming. HRI houses an undergraduate major and minor in human rights, a master of arts and graduate certificate in human rights. HRI’s Dodd Human Rights Impact awards the Thomas J. Dodd Prize in International Justice and Human Rights, and programming related to human rights education, democracy and dialogue, business and human rights, and human rights film and digital media.

Innovative research and educational programs centering on human rights take place across campus – including numerous units in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the Schools of Business, Education, Engineering, Law, Social Work, and UConn Health. Student-oriented programming in the Human Rights and Action Learning Community, Community Outreach Alternative Breaks, and efforts of student organizations such as the Human Rights Symposium and Huskies for Human Rights deepen the work of human rights at UConn. The reach of human rights extends into our communities and beyond, particularly through the efforts of UConn Law’s Asylum and Human Rights Clinic and courses offered on human rights in high schools throughout Connecticut in the Early College ExperienceProgram.

National Homeless Person’s Remembrance Day (December 21): National Homeless Person’s Remembrance Day takes place on the North American winter solstice, which is the longest night of the year and the first day of winter. Recognized since 1990, this day raises awareness about the plight suffered by those who are homeless or housing insecure. Housing insecurity is an issue facing college students across the nation, including students at UConn. Students impacted by housing insecurity are especially vulnerable during long breaks, including Winter and Summer, where they might not have access to either housing or to campus dining facilities, which can also increase their food insecurity. The University has a few resources to assist students impacted by housing and food insecurity, including the Dean of Students Office that offers financial resources for students in crisis, and Off-Campus and Commuter Student Services.

Boxing Day (December 26): Boxing Day is held in many countries associated with the British empire, especially in the Caribbean. Though traditions may vary, typical customs include visiting family, friends, and neighbors with gifts, food, and drinks.

Religious Holidays:

Advent (November 30 through December 24): In Christianity, Advent is a period of preparation for celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ at Christmas and preparing for Christ’s second coming. In Western churches, Advent begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30. Eastern Churches begin Advent 40 days before Christmas. 

Feast of Saint Francis Xavier (December 3): This day marks the feast day of St. Francis Xavier, one of the Jesuits, who is considered by some to be the greatest missionary since the time of the Apostles. It commemorates and honors the commitment and service he showed through his Roman Catholic missionary activity. 

Saint Nicholas Day (December 6): This day is celebrated by Christians worldwide on the anniversary of St. Nicholas’ death. He is known for selling all his possessions and giving his money to the poor, dedicating his life to serving the sick and suffering. Some observe this day by slipping a gift or surprise into someone’s shoes.

Bodhi Day (December 8): Bodhi celebrates the day the historic Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, Sakyamuni Buddha, achieved enlightenment. Often a time for quiet and reflection, celebrations can include time spent studying Dharma (the teachings of Buddha), chanting sutras (threads of religious teaching passed down through generations) or holding service to commemorate Buddha’s achievement of enlightenment.

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception (December 8): The Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception is a Catholic feast celebrating Mary’s conception without sin. The Immaculate Conception refers to the conception of Mary in the womb of her mother, St. Anne. The dogma of the Immaculate Conception asserts that, “from the first moment of her conception, the Blessed Virgin Mary was, by the singular grace and privilege of Almighty God, and in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, Savior of Mankind, kept free from all stain of original sin.”

Our Lady of Guadalupe (Feast Day; December 12): Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Roman Catholic religious festival that commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary, who is Mexico’s patron saint, in Mexico City on December 12, 1531. This feast day is a reminder that Jesus and his mother accept all peoples and have a special heart for the poor and oppressed.

Chanukah or Hanukkah (Sunset December 14 – December 22): Chanukah, which is Hebrew for “Dedication,” is an 8-day Jewish festival celebrating the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after Seleucid control. Chanukah is celebrated for 8 days because a single day supply of oil for the Temple menorah miraculously lasted eight full days. Often called the “Festival of Lights,” this holiday is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah – which represents light pushing out darkness – traditional foods, games, and gifts. Please visit the UConn Hillel and Chabad at UConn websites to view upcoming events. 

Las Posadas (December 16 – 24): A Catholic festival traditionally held in parts of Latin America. Translating to ‘The Inns’ in Spanish, Las Posadas is a celebration over nine nights in which parties are held at different people’s homes. Before each gathering, all guests form a procession to mark Mary and Joseph’s search for an inn on the night of Jesus’s birth. The parties are joyous occasions, including prayers, food, music, and fireworks.

Yule (December 21 – January 1): Yule, also known as the winter solstice, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This celestial event has been celebrated for centuries by various cultures and spiritual traditions. For pagans and Wiccans, Yule holds immense significance as a time of transition, rebirth, and renewal. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, as the sun begins its ascent, gradually growing stronger and promising the return of spring. The main component of any Yule celebration is the lighting of the Yule log. Symbolizing the light and warmth in the midst of winter’s darkness, a large log is traditionally burned in the hearth or bonfire. 

Christmas (December 25): Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus, though it has also become a widespread secular holiday. Popular customs include exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, attending church, and sharing meals with family and friends. Christmas was in the first group of federal holidays passed by Congress in 1870, along with New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving.  Christians in the Orthodox tradition, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, celebrate Christmas on January 7th. 

Saint Stephen’s Day (December 26 in Western Churches; December 27 in Eastern Churches): This Christian feast day commemorates Christianity’s first martyr. It is also an official public holiday in much of Europe and in countries associated with the British Commonwealth. In some countries, it is known as the second day of Christmas.

Kwanzaa (December 26 – January 1): From the Swahili matunda ya kwanza or “first fruits,” Kwanzaa is a seven-day African American cultural festival. Started by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, this festival celebrates family, community, and culture. Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa are dedicated to one of the Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles): Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). These seven principles are represented by a kinara (candle holder) holding seven candles of red, green, and black, which families light each night before discussing that day’s value. On December 31, families join in karamu, a community feast. Some may wear traditional African clothing during the celebration. This year, the African American Cultural Center at Storrs will be holding its Kwanzaa celebration on Friday, 12/5, at 6:00 p.m. in the SU Ballroom (RM 330/331). The event is free, but please RSVP here.

We welcome the celebration of each of these holidays on our campuses and encourage support for those requiring accommodations. You can find information and guidance about academic accommodations for religious observations on the Provost Office’s webpage. 

To see more information about resources and events happening this month and throughout the semester, please visit our events page at www.diversity.uconn.edu/events. OICR writes these letters in collaboration with our partners across the UConn system. If we inadvertently omitted a cultural or religious holiday, please let us know by emailing us at diversity@uconn.edu. 

If you would like to receive our OICR Weekly Digest, where you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities, subscribe here! 

Sincerely,

Jeff and Pamir

Jeffrey F. Hines, M.D.

Vice President, Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights, UConn and UConn Health

Pamir Alpay, Ph.D.

Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

To the UConn Community:

The Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights and the Provost’s Office would like to remind you of several celebrations, commemorations, and moments of raising awareness for members of our community during the month of November:

Heritage Month Celebrations:

Native and Indigenous Heritage Month: November is Native American Heritage month (also known as “National American Indian Heritage Month” and “Native American and Alaskan Native Heritage Month”). First recognized by President George H.W. Bush in 1990 and commemorated by every president since, this month honors the cultures, histories, and legacies of America’s first inhabitants and the Tribal nations that continue to thrive here today. It celebrates the traditions, languages, and stories of hundreds of Native nations and works to ensure that their histories and contributions endure. This month also acknowledges the painful history Native and Indigenous Peoples in the United States have faced, one marked by unjust federal policies and state-sanctioned campaigns of violence, displacement, assimilation, and terror. 

UConn recognizes Native and Indigenous resilience and strength every day of the year. We acknowledge through the Land Acknowledgement Statement that our university sits on lands taken through violence, displacement, assimilation, and terror. We encourage reading this statement before any event held in UConn’s physical or digital spaces. UConn also serves as a vibrant hub for research, scholarship, and outreach among scholars, students, and Indigenous community members through the Native American and Indigenous Studies Initiative (NAISI). NAISI aims to become a center for the renewed presences of Indigenous Peoples in Connecticut, New England, and the entire Eastern region of the United States. We also honor the cultures, histories, and legacies of Native and Indigenous peoples through the Native American Cultural Programs (NACP), which provides programming, initiatives, resources, and trainings for the Native and Indigenous Peoples who make a home at UConn. Native and Indigenous students also find community at UConn through the Native American and Indigenous Student Association (NAISA).

We invite the entire UConn community to join us in commemorating Native American Heritage Month through the following events featured on the NACP website.

Awareness Month Celebrations:

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Every November, we observe Lung Cancer Awareness month. The official awareness ribbon is white and this year, add blue or red accents to specifically honor Veterans. Read more on the Lung Cancer Foundation of America website.

National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month: Established in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan, National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness month is observed in November. The main goal is to raise public awareness about the disease and its impact on individuals, families, and caregivers. Read more on the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America website.

Epilepsy Awareness Month: Epilepsy Awareness month is observed every November in the United States. During this month, organizations and individuals work to raise public awareness, reduce stigma surrounding epilepsy, and promote understanding of this neurological disorder. To understand and learn more, check out the Epilepsy Foundation website. 

National Diabetes Month: Diabetes affects millions of Americans and is a leading cause of serious complications, including kidney failure, lower-limb amputations, adult blindness, and an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Learn more about diabetes and how to improve your health on the American Diabetes Association website.                

Movember: Movember is an annual global campaign to raise awareness on men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. It aims to challenge the stigma around men’s health issues, spark conversations, and promote early detection and intervention. Find out more on the Movember website.

Cultural and Federal Holidays:

Día de los Muertos “Day of the Dead” (November 1-2): Día de los Muertos remembers ancestors and lost loved ones, through food, music, and gatherings—it is a joyful celebration of their lives, rather than the mourning of their deaths. Originating in Mexico, it is celebrated worldwide by those with Mexican heritage. Traditions vary, but common traditions include “una ofrenda” (an altar) with flowers and food for the dead, individual offerings, and candles lit to help guide spirits back to their families.

National First-Generation Day (November 8): Since 2017, schools and universities across the country have dedicated this day to celebrating first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni. This day celebrates the accomplishments of students whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree. November 8th was selected to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, which increased federal funding and resources to help level the playing field for underserved communities. Notably, HEA ushered in the federal TRIO programs that increase access, retention, and completion for low-income, first-generation, and underserved minority populations. UConn has two TRIO Programs: Student Support Services, which supports this mission, and McNair Programs, which prepares first-generation, low-income, and historically underrepresented students for M.S. and Ph.D. studies in STEM disciplines. 

World Freedom Day (November 9): World Freedom Day is a federal holiday that commemorates the fall of the Berlin Wall. Established in 2001 by President George W. Bush, it celebrates freedom within democracy.

Veterans Day (November 11): Veterans Day pays tribute to all those who served in the United States Armed forces. It is separate from Memorial Day (the last Monday of May), which commemorates those who died while serving in the U.S. military, and Armed Forces Day (the third Saturday in May), which honors those currently serving in the U.S. military. Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day, which celebrated the cessation of hostilities during World War I that went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. In 1954, this holiday was changed to “Veterans Day” to include veterans from all American wars. 

UConn honors members of the U.S. military and their families. The Office of Veterans and Military Programs (VAMP) will be holding its annual Veterans Day Ceremony on Tuesday, November 11th at 11am on Founders Green. All are invited and encouraged to join. VAMP also provides student support services specifically for veterans, active service members, and their families who are attending UConn. Their services include certifying VA educational benefits, assisting students in their transition to life at UConn, providing supplemental programs and activities to student veterans, and directing veterans to fully confidential mental and behavioral health assistance. VAMP works closely with the Center for Students with Disabilities which has a wealth of resources for veterans regardless of ability status, and the Center for Career Development.

Native Women’s Equal Pay Day (November 18): In 2023, American Indian and Alaskan Native women earned just 52.4 cents for every dollar paid to White, non-Hispanic men of comparable skills and training. This day marks the day that Native women need to work until they made what White men made in the previous year. On Native Women’s Equal Pay Day, activists, organizers, educators, and community members raise awareness and support causes that address this ongoing inequity.

Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20): The Transgender Day of Remembrance memorializes those who lost their lives to acts of anti-transgender violence. It raises public awareness about hate crimes directed at transgender and gender-diverse people and ensures that their lives are not forgotten. This is a day for expressing love and respect in the face of hatred or indifference. This day also helps raise awareness about issues the transgender and gender-diverse communities continue to face. UConn supports the transgender communities through the Rainbow Center, which provides spaces of refuge and community-building, as well as resources to help members of the transgender communities navigate life at UConn. Check their website and Instagram account for more.

Holodomor Memorial Day (November 22): Holodomor Memorial Day is commemorated each year on the fourth Saturday of November as a Day of Remembrance to remember the millions of Ukrainians who were starved to death in Ukraine in 1932 and 1933, many of whom were children. Holodomor Memorial Day is dedicated to remembering those who died, and, alongside the descendants of survivors, spreading awareness of this chapter in history. For more information, the Holodomor Research and Education Consortium maintains a comprehensive archive of educational materials, which can be found here. 

National Adoption Day (November 22): Launched in 1999, National Adoption Day is a collective, grassroots effort to raise awareness of the more than 100,000 children waiting to be adopted from foster care in the United States. To learn more, check out the National Adoption Day website.

National Day of Mourning (November 27): The National Day of Mourning, which takes place on the fourth Thursday of November every year, was established in 1970 by the United American Indians of New England (UAINE) as a day to honor and mourn Native and Indigenous people lost to genocide and colonialism, as well as to commemorate Native and Indigenous resilience and resistance. Every year, as a part of this commemoration, UAINE holds an outdoor speak-out and march at Cole’s Hill in Plymouth, MA. Many participants also fast from sundown the day prior to the event, and break their fast following the march, as a gesture of both mourning and solidarity. To read more about this event, please visit UAINE’s website.

Thanksgiving (November 27): Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. It is a day for expressing gratitude that, for many, is marked by family traditions, seeing loved ones, and kicking off the holiday season.

Religious Holidays:

All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (November 1 and 2): All Saints’ Day is observed in the Catholic and other Christian traditions as a solemn feast honoring all the saints, both the well-known and the countless faithful who lived lives of holiness without recognition. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, a similar commemoration of all saints is held on the first Sunday after Pentecost, reflecting their liturgical calendar, but the meaning is much the same: celebrating the great “cloud of witnesses” who inspire us in faith. All Souls’ Day is rooted in Catholic tradition and focused on praying for the departed who may still be on their journey to heaven. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, “Soul Saturdays” are devoted to prayers for the departed. Together, both holidays remind the Christian community worldwide to honor the saints who have gone before us and to pray for those still being perfected in God’s care.

Jain New Year (November 7): Jains mark the New Year on the first day of the Hindu Month of Kartika, following the commencement of their Diwali celebration. This holiday marks the day that their founder, Mahavira, achieved moksha (salvation) in passing from his earthly life. On this day, Jains gather in the temple and perform the Snatra Puja ritual to worship the 24 Tirthankaras who founded their religion (Tirthankara is Sanskrit for “Ford-Maker,” a figure who has succeeded in crossing over life’s streams of rebirths and has made a path for others to follow). Mahavira is the last of the Tirthankaras.

Solemnity of Christ the King (November 23): Celebrated by the Catholic Church and many Christian denominations, this feast day proclaims the authority of Christ over all creation. Instituted in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, it’s meant to remind the faithful that ultimate allegiance belongs not to worldly powers but to Christ’s eternal reign of peace and justice. It falls on the final Sunday of the liturgical year, serving as a fitting close before Advent begins.

Martyrdom of Guru Bahadur (November 24): This Sikh holiday commemorates the martyrdom of Guru Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, who sacrificed his life to protect people—including people from faiths other than his own—from religious persecution. Guru Bahadur’s martyrdom reflects two important principles of the Sikh faith: standing up for faith—including faiths one does not agree with—and standing up for others.

Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (November 28): This holy day is observed by members of the Bahá’í Faith in honor of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the son of Bahá’u’lláh (the founder of the Bahá’í Faith), who passed away in 1921. Remembered as a model of service, humility, and compassion, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was instrumental in spreading the Bahá’í teachings worldwide. The day is marked by prayers and gatherings that reflect on his life and his dedication to unity, peace, and the betterment of humanity.

First Day of Advent (November 30): Advent marks the beginning of the Christian liturgical year and the four-week season of preparation for Christmas. In both Catholic and many Protestant traditions, it is a time of waiting and hope—looking back to Christ’s birth in Bethlehem and looking forward to his promised return. Advent wreaths, candles, and readings all emphasize themes of light breaking into darkness, hope, peace, joy, and love.

We welcome the celebration of each of these holidays on our campuses and encourage support for those requiring accommodations. You can find information and guidance about academic accommodations for religious observations on the Provost Office’s webpage. 

To see more information about resources and events happening this month and throughout the semester, please visit our events page at www.diversity.uconn.edu/events. OICR writes these letters in collaboration with our partners across the UConn system. If we inadvertently omitted a cultural or religious holiday, please let us know by emailing us at diversity@uconn.edu. 

If you would like to receive our OICR Weekly Digest, where you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities, subscribe here! 

 

Sincerely,

Jeff and Pamir

Jeffrey F. Hines, M.D.

Vice President, Office for Inclusion and Civil Rights, UConn | UConn Health

 

Pamir Alpay, Ph.D.

Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

To the UConn Community:

The Office for Diversity and Inclusion and the Provost’s Office would like to remind you of several celebrations, commemorations, and moments of raising awareness for members of our community during the month of October:

Heritage Month Celebrations:

Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15): Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes and celebrates the many diverse cultures and histories within Hispanic and Latine communities, as well as members of those culture’s achievements and contributions to the United States. First recognized as Hispanic Heritage Week by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968, it was expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. This month is observed from September 15^th – the anniversary of Guatemalan, Honduran, El Salvadorian, Nicaraguan, and Costa Rican independence – through October 15^th. It also includes Día de la Raza on October 12^th, an alternative holiday to Columbus Day that celebrates and honors the peoples, traditions, and cultures destroyed by European colonization. 

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite the entire community to participate in the Puerto Rican / Latin American Cultural Center’s (PRLACC) events. Please follow the PRLACC calendar for a full list of events! Also be sure to check out events held by La Comunidad Intelectual, a learning community that works to create a welcoming space on campus for students who identify as Latina/o/e and/or who are interested in issues that affect the Latin American and Caribbean communities. Check out their Instagram page for upcoming events! 

ODI and the Provost’s Office also believe that UConn is stronger for the inclusion of Hispanic and Latinepeoples, cultures, and traditions. We are also proud that our UConn Stamford and UConn Waterbury campuses are accredited Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI). The University has resources to help these communities navigate the unique challenges in higher education settings, including PRLACC, the Association of Latine/a/o Faculty and Staff (ALFAS), and the Center for Career Development. UConn is also proud of El Instituto: Institute of Latina/o, Caribbean, and Latin American Studies, which supports the developing of hemispheric and Latine-centered perspectives and of La Comunidad Intelectual, a learning community that recognizes and critically examines Latina/o, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures, customs, and traditions at UConn and beyond. 

Filipino American History Month (October 1 – October 31): Filipino American History Month (FAHM) celebrates Filipino heritage and culture, and recognizes the contributions of Filipino Americans to American history. The Filipino American National Historical Society introduced FAHM in 1992, and Congress officially recognized FAHM in 2009. FAHM is celebrated in October to commemorate the arrival of the first Filipinos to America (California) on October 18, 1587.

German American Heritage Month (October 1 – October 31): German American Heritage Month honors the contributions made by German Americans, the largest ancestry group in the United States. The first German immigrants came to the United States on October 6, 1683, when thirteen families settled in Pennsylvania. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed October 6^th as German American Day in 1983 to celebrate the 300^th anniversary and to strengthen the United States’ relationship with Germany.

Italian American Heritage Month (October 1 – October 31): Over five million Italians immigrated to the U.S. between 1820 and 2000, and there are currently over 26 million Americans of Italian descent living in the U.S. Proclaimed in 1989 by President George H.W. Bush and Congress, this month honors the achievements, contributions, and successes of Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States. Each October, millions of Americans of Italian descent come together to reflect on their histories, traditions, and values. Celebrations typically include cultural festivals and parades, the largest of which is held in New York City.

LGBTQIA+ History Month (October 1 – October 31): LGBT History Month was inaugurated in 1994 by Missouri high school teacher Rodney Wilson, to celebrate the national and international contributions made by members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Wilson chose October because schools are in session and because October already had National Coming Out Day (10/11). Today, October also hosts International Pronouns Day (10/16), Intersex Awareness Day (10/26), and Asexual Awareness Week (last full week of October 19-25). LGBTQIA+ History Month provides possibility models, builds community, and emphasizes the continued importance of civil rights. To learn more information and to attend events, please visit the Rainbow Center’s website here.

Polish American Heritage Month (October 1 – October 31): Polish American Heritage month celebrates the positive impact Polish Americans have had and continue to have on the United States, as well as Polish history and culture. Originally celebrated in August, Polish American Heritage Month is now observed in October to commemorate the arrival of the first Polish settlers in Jamestown, VA in October 1608 as well as the death of Casimir Pulaski, the father of American cavalry. First celebrated by the Polish American Cultural Center in Philadelphia in 1981 under the leadership of the Center’s President, Michael Blichasz, Polish American Heritage Month is now recognized nationally by the President and Congress.

Awareness Month/Week Celebrations:

Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM; October 1 – October 31): During DVAM, victim advocates, allied professionals, survivors of abuse, their loved ones, and the surrounding community come together to mourn the lives lost to domestic violence and connect with others working to create change. DVAM began in 1981 as a “Day of Unity” hosted by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was commemorated in October 1987, and Congress officially recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October of 1989.

UConn’s Violence Against Women Prevention Program (VAWPP) is dedicated to addressing and preventing all forms of sexual violence through education, outreach, and advocacy. VAWPP offers a range of workshops which cover several topics related to the issues of sexual violence. These workshops “emphasize a primary prevention approach that engages all stakeholders in the campus community to examine their role in ending sexual violence by addressing its root causes in oppression.” For more information about VAWPP and to see a full list of its workshops and resources, consult the website here.

UConn’s Office of Institutional Equity offers several resources for anyone who may be experiencing domestic violence, including confidential domestic violence advocacy as well as urgent and medical care. For information about looking for medical or counseling services, academic or work support, assistance with transportation or financial aid, or to learn more about investigations, consult the Title IX office’s website for additional information.

For student-led support, In-Power is a student-led support group dedicated to building a gender-inclusive community that welcomes victim-survivors of sexual assault, stalking, and/or intimate partner violence at any point in their healing process. Through a focus on empowerment, autonomy, and resilience, the group aims to help participants claim agency over their own stories and experiences, as well as the direction of the group. The group works through a variety of discussion topics and self-care methods. If you are interested in joining the group, please reach out to facilitators at in-power@uconn.edu.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month (October 1 – October 31): October was first designated as Down Syndrome Awareness Month (DSAM) in the 1980s and has been recognized ever since. More than 400,000 people are living with Down syndrome in the United States. It is a time to raise awareness, celebrate the abilities and achievements of individuals with Down syndrome, and advocate for their inclusion and support. 

National ADHD Awareness Month (October 1 – October 31): October is National ADHD Awareness Month. It is dedicated to educating the public about ADHD, promoting research about ADHD, and helping to develop communities of support and professional development for those with ADHD. This October, National ADHD Awareness Month is partnering with organizations around the world with the shared global goal of dissemination of reliable information about ADHD and its treatments. The 2025 ADHD Awareness Month theme in the United States is “The Many Faces of ADHD.”

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM; October 1 – October 31): The event began in 1985 as a weeklong awareness campaign by the American Cancer Society, in collaboration with Imperial Chemical Industries. It later became a monthlong event. The goal of NBCAM is to promote screening and prevention of the disease that affects one in eight women in the U.S. every year and 2.3 million women worldwide. For information about breast cancer care services, visit the Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center at UConn Health.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM; October 1 – October 31): In 1945, Congress designated the first week of October as “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week,” in part, to help disabled WWII veterans find employment. Since then, the concept of disability has shifted. Congress dropped the word “physically” in the 1970s to provide a more inclusive view. In 1973, Congress passed Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act which protects the rights of persons with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. Section 504 protects the rights not only of individuals with visible disabilities but also those whose disabilities might not be apparent.

Over the next few decades, activists and educators helped shift national understanding of ability, leading to more inclusive views about type of disability, greater recognition of the intersections between identity and ability, and stronger legislation to protect people with disabilities from discrimination. In 1990, the United States passed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which made it illegal to discriminate along the basis of identity and guarantees that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else in the United States. This month celebrates these accomplishments while also raising awareness of barriers that still need to be addressed. Find more about the month at the Department of Labor’s website. 

UConn has a strong commitment to expanding inclusion through the Center for Students with Disabilities. UConn also promotes awareness through academic programs like the Certificate of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies in Public Health and the Human Development and Family Sciences Disabilities concentration, as well as academic centers like the Center for Excellence in the Study of Developmental Disabilities and the Collaborative on Postsecondary Education and Disability, and through courses on Disability Studies at the Storrs and Waterbury campuses.

National Transfer Student Week (NISTS; October 20 – October 24): The National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students declares the third week of each October as National Transfer Student Week. NISTS organizes National Transfer Student Week to celebrate transfer students, educate others about the diverse needs of the transfer population, and recognize the professionals who support them on their journeys. This year’s National Transfer Student Week theme is “Unlocking Potential: Keys to the Transfer Journey.” This theme celebrates the unique skills, knowledge, and perspectives that transfer students bring to campuses. It also recognizes the “keys” that transfer students already possess, such as their problem-solving skills, adaptability, and connections to community.

Cultural and Federal Holidays:

International Day of Older Persons (October 1): The United Nations sets aside October 1 to draw attention to the challenges of population aging in the twenty-first century and to promote societal development for people of all ages. Seventy-five years ago, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, a monumental document in the history of human rights. Written by representatives from around the world with different legal, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds, it is the first document articulating the fundamental human rights that are meant to be universally protected. This year’s theme is “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being and Our Rights.” 

UConn supports senior citizens through educational initiatives, including Senior Citizen Audits for learners over 62, UConn Extension’s Center for Learning in Retirement (CLIR) for retirees and other adults from all walks of life, and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), based at the UConn Waterbury campus, part of a national network where adults over 50 can expand their minds and connect with other learners. In May of 2025, UConn joined the Age-Friendly University Global Network.UConn is now among more than 120 universities globally that are reimagining higher education’s role in an aging society.

German American Heritage Day (October 6): This day honors the contributions German Americans have made to the country. It is recognized on this day to commemorate the October 6, 1683, arrival of the first German immigrants to the United States.

Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival (October 6): The Mid-Autumn Festival, Zhongqiu Jie (中秋节), also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival, is a Chinese festival to give thanks for the Autumn harvest. This year, the festival falls on October 6th. It is an occasion for families to gather for dinner, celebrate the full moon, share mooncakes, and enjoy a range of festive events like lighting paper lanterns.

Chuseok/Hangawi (October 5-7): This holiday is one of the most significant in South Korea, often referred to as Korean Thanksgiving. Chuseok is a major harvest festival celebrated over the course of three days. People celebrate by traveling back to their hometowns to pay respect to the spirit of their ancestors, share a feast of traditional Korean food, wear a formal dress called “hanbok” and exchange gifts.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day (October 13): Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates the cultures, histories, and contributions of Native and Indigenous peoples in the United States and across the world. It honors America’s first inhabitants and the Tribal nations that continue to thrive here today, recognizing their contributions and acknowledging their resilience and strength in the face of a centuries-long campaign of violence, displacement, assimilation, and terror wrought upon Native and Indigenous communities in the United States and beyond. Currently, 14 states celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and in 2021, President Biden proclaimed it a national holiday. The State of Connecticut does not currently mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day, though several towns and communities within Connecticut celebrate it, including Mansfield. 

UConn recognizes Native and Indigenous resilience and strength every day of the year. We acknowledge that our university sits on lands taken through the long campaigns of violence, displacement, assimilation, and terror through our Land Acknowledgement Statement. We encourage reading this statement before any event held on UConn’s spaces. We also honor the cultures, histories, and legacies of Native and Indigenous peoples every day, primarily through the Native American Cultural Programs (NACP), which provides programming, initiatives, resources, and trainings for the Native and Indigenous Peoples who make a home at UConn. 

Columbus Day (October 13): Columbus Day was made a federal holiday in the United States in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johson, set to begin in 1971. In 1934, Congress passed a statute requesting an annual proclamation from the President. According to the Congressional Research Service, Congress believed that “by commemorating Columbus’s voyage…the nation would be honoring the courage and determination which enabled generations of immigrants from many nations to find freedom and opportunity in America.” Today, Columbus Day has also become a point of honoring Italian American heritage in the United States. 

Religious Holidays:

Navaratri (September 22 – October 2): Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across Northern and Eastern India. This festival symbolizes the nine nights of battle between good and evil, culminating in the victory of good on the tenth day. During this period, Mother Durga is worshipped as the deity of power, energy, and wisdom. 

Yom Kippur (October 2): Yom Kippur begins sunset October 1. It is the Day of Atonement and considered the most important holiday in the Jewish faith. Yom Kippur marks the culmination of the Ten Days of Awe, a period of introspection and repentance that follows Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. According to tradition, it is on Yom Kippur that God decides each person’s fate, so Jews are encouraged to make amends and ask forgiveness for sins committed during the past year. The holiday is observed with a 25-hour fast and a special religious service. Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah are known as Judaism’s “High Holy Days.”

Dussehra (October 2): Vijayadashami, more commonly known as Dassahra in Hindi, and also known as Dashāhra or Dashain in Bhojpuri, Maithili and Nepali, is a major Hindu festival celebrated every year at the end of Durga Puja and Navarahtri. Dussehra 2025 will be celebrated on the 2^nd of October, marking the victory of good over evil. Celebrations are held by lighting fireworks. In addition, festival preparations for Diwali or Deepavali begin.

Feast of St Francis of Assisi (October 4): The feast commemorates the life of St Francis, who was born in the 12th century and is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment. He is remembered for his generosity to the poor and his willingness to minister to the lepers. He is remembered for his love for animals and nature. It’s on the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi that many pets are blessed in churches. 

Sukkot (October 7 –October 8): Sukkot begins sunset October 6 and is known as one of the most joyful festivals on the Jewish calendar. It is a week-long celebration of the fall harvest. Sukkot commemorates the forty-year period during which the children of Israel were wandering in the desert, living in temporary shelters called booths or huts. 

Shemini Atzeret (October 14) begins sunset October 13 and is the Eighth Day of the Assembly. Simchat Torah (October 15) begins sunset October 14 and known as “Rejoicing in Torah”. These two holidays come at the conclusion of Sukkot – in Israel they are combined into one holiday; in the rest of the world, they are celebrated over two consecutive days. These two holidays anticipate the coming year with prayer and engaging with the Torah. Simchat Torah celebrates finishing the yearly cycle of reading the whole Torah and immediately start again at the beginning.

Diwali/Deepavali (October 20): Diwali or Deepawali is a Hindu festival of lights symbolizing the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. The word “Deepawali” refers to rows of diyas, or clay lamps. This is one of the most popular festivals in the Hindu calendar. It commemorates Lord Rama’s return to his kingdom Ayodhya after completing his 14-year exile.

Birthday of Báb (October 22): The Báb (the title means ‘the Gate’) was born in Shiraz, Persia in 1819. He was the prophet-herald of the Baha’i community and called people to religious renewal and to await the coming of a new messenger from God – ‘the one whom God shall make manifest’. Baha’is believe that this latter figure was Baha’u’llah (the title means ‘Glory of God’). Baha’is observe this holy day by abstaining from work. Gatherings normally involve prayers, devotional readings, music and fellowship.

Birthday of Baha’u’llah (October 23): Baha’u’llah is held by many of his followers to be the founder of the Baha’i faith. For Bahá’ís, this Holy Day is a celebration of the rebirth of the world through the love of God. Bahá’ís observe this holy day with community gatherings where prayers are shared and the birth of Bahá’u’lláh is celebrated. The birthdays of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh are now celebrated as the Twin Holy Birthdays on two consecutive days each year. Bahá’ís will typically to be absent from work or school on these days.

Samhain (October 31-November 1): Samhain (a Gaelic word pronounced “sow-win”) is a pagan and wiccan religious festival originating from an ancient Celtic spiritual tradition. This festival traditionally marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, or the “darker half” of the year. While these dates are standard, the celebration of Samhain can extend beyond these times, depending on local customs and personal practices. Many participants choose to engage in festivities that span several days, incorporating both modern Halloween activities and traditional Samhain rituals, which allows for a full and enriched experience of this deeply spiritual time.

We welcome the celebration of each of these holidays on our campuses and encourage support for those requiring accommodations. You can find information and guidance about academic accommodations for religious observations on the Provost Office’s webpage. 

To see more information about resources and events happening this month and throughout the semester, please visit our events page at www.diversity.uconn.edu/events. ODI writes these letters in collaboration with our partners across the UConn system. If we inadvertently omitted a cultural or religious holiday, please let us know by emailing us at diversity@uconn.edu. 

If you would like to receive our ODI Weekly Digest, where you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities, subscribe here! 

 

Sincerely,

Jeff and Pamir 

Jeffrey F. Hines, M.D.

Vice President, Office for Diversity and Inclusion, UConn and UConn Health

Pamir Alpay, Ph.D.

Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

To the UConn Community:

The Office for Diversity and Inclusion and the Provost’s Office would like to remind you of several celebrations, commemorations, and moments of raising awareness for members of our community during the month of September:

Heritage Month Celebrations:

National Recovery Month: September is National Recovery Month, which promotes and celebrates the nation’s recovery community, emphasizing that recovery from mental health and substance use disorders is possible. The event, established by SAMHSA in 1989, raises awareness about new recovery practices, supports those in recovery, and encourages more people to seek help by destigmatizing addiction and mental health challenges. Events, including walks, rallies, and seminars, are held to highlight the resilience of those in recovery and the positive impact of treatment.

The goal of this month is to reinforce the message that behavioral health is essential to overall health, that prevention works, that treatment is effective, and that people can and do recover. This month reminds us that no one is alone in the journey through recovery. While every journey is different, we are all in this together. At UConn, we endeavor to ensure that substance use is not a barrier to academic, personal, or professional success. Please visit Student Health and Wellness’s (SHaW) Alcohol and Substance Use Support and UConn’s Recovery Support Services page for resources, trainings, and opportunities for support on your journey. 

Suicide Prevention Month and Week: September is Suicide Prevention Month. Every year, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) host World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10 to focus attention on the problem of suicide worldwide. The week leading up to this day is Suicide Prevention Week. Suicide is a particular concern in the United States; it is the second leading cause of death for 10- to 34-year-olds. This month creates awareness about suicide and aims to inspire people to learn how to help save lives in their community, and to learn to have authentic and caring conversations about suicide and mental health.  

If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health or having suicidal thoughts, please know that you are not alone. The University has resources to help through times of crisis. The Office for Diversity and Inclusion has also gathered a partial list of mental health resources for students, staff, and faculty at all five UConn campuses, as well as for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and veteran communities. There is also help available whenever you need it and wherever you may be. UConn has several resources for getting immediate support. As of summer 2022, the federal government has also instituted a new national suicide prevention hotline, 988, that can be called for immediate support 24/7. 

Employees seeking mental health care at UCHC can contact the Mood and Anxiety Clinic, provided by the UConn Health Department of Psychiatry. The Clinic provides comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals struggling with mood and anxiety symptoms. 

For medical, dental and graduate students at UConn Health, the Student Behavioral Health Service have a range of useful resources. 

Suicide prevention should not be limited to a single day, week, or month, but should receive attention every day. For those who are struggling, please remember that you matter and that there are resources dedicated to helping you in your time of need. 

Hispanic Heritage Month: (September 15 – October 15): Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes and celebrates the many diverse cultures and histories within Hispanic and Latine communities, as well as members of those culture’s achievements and contributions to the United States. First recognized as Hispanic Heritage Week by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968, it was expanded to a full month by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. This month is observed from September 15^th – the anniversary of Guatemalan, Honduran, El Salvadorian, Nicaraguan, and Costa Rican independence – through October 15^th. It also includes Día de la Raza on October 12^th, an alternative holiday to Columbus Day that celebrates and honors the peoples, traditions, and cultures destroyed by European colonization. 

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we invite the entire community to participate in the Puerto Rican / Latin American Cultural Center’s (PRLACC) events, which will be announced in the near future. Please follow the PRLACC calendar for a full list of events! We look forward to seeing you there. 

Also be sure to check out events held by La Comunidad Intelectual, a learning community that works to create a welcoming space on campus for students who identify as Latina/o/x and/or who are interested in issues that affect the Latin American and Caribbean communities. Check out their Instagram page for upcoming events! 

ODI and the Provost’s Office also believe that UConn is stronger for the inclusion of Hispanic and Latine peoples, cultures, and traditions. We are also proud that our UConn Stamford and UConn Waterbury campuses are accredited Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI). The University has resources to help these communities navigate the unique challenges in higher education settings, including PRLACC, the Association of Latine/a/o Faculty and Staff (ALFAS),  and the Center for Career Development. UConn is also proud of El Instituto: Institute of Latina/o, Caribbean, and Latin American Studies, which supports the developing of hemispheric and Latine-centered perspectives and of La Comunidad Intelectual, a learning community that recognizes and critically examines Latina/o, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures, customs, and traditions at UConn and beyond. 

 Cultural and Federal Holidays:

Labor Day (September 1): This federal holiday, held on the first Monday of September, celebrates the American labor movement and pays tribute to American workers. This day is set aside to celebrate improvements made to working conditions in the United States.

Patriot Day (September 11): This day honors those who perished in or because of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, including first responders and military service members. Flags are flown at half-staff on this day, and Americans are encouraged to honor the victims through acts of service.  

National Trail of Tears Remembrance Day (September 16): On this day, we acknowledge the forced displacement of Native and Indigenous peoples from their lands. September 16^th is the National Day of Commemoration for the Trail of Tears, when citizens of the Cherokee, Choctaw, Seminole, Creek, and Chickasaw Nations and other Eastern tribal nations were violently removed from their homelands by the United States government after the passage of the 1830 Indian Removal Act. Relocated citizens suffered from continual violence, disease, and starvation during and after displacement. 

We also recognize that UConn occupies lands taken from Native and Indigenous peoples accounted for in our Land Acknowledgement Statement, and we encourage reading this statement out loud before any event held on University property, incorporating it in UConn websites, and including it in course syllabi. Furthermore, we note that the University continues to profit from the sale of other land taken by violent dispossession under the auspices of the 1862 Morrill Act. To see UConn’s participation in this legacy, visit the Land Grab CT website, a resource put together by UConn’s Greenhouse Studios in conjunction with the Native American Cultural Programs (NACP), the Native American and Indigenous Students Association (NAISA), and the Dodd Impact Initiative at the Human Rights Institute. 

International Equal Pay Day (September 18): This day was first established in 2019 to illuminate persistent pay discrimination and wage gaps that disproportionately affect women and people of color across all occupations. The United Nations celebrated International Equal Pay Day on September 18, 2020, to accelerate the realization of the principle of “equal pay for equal work of equal value” and ensure recognition of women’s major contribution to the economy. 

 Religious Holidays:

Mawlid-al-Nabi (September 4-5): Mawlid al-Nabi, or Milad-un-Nabi, is a significant Islamic religious holiday that marks the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. In 2025, it is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, September 5 and end on the evening of Saturday, September 6th. It is a time for Muslims to reflect on the Prophet’s life and teachings, express love and admiration, and engage in acts of charity and community service.  

Pitru Paksha (September 6-20): Pitru Paksha is a 15-day lunar period where members of the Hindu faith pay homage to their departed ancestors through food offerings, prayers, and other rituals. It is a time to pay respects, seek blessings, and help their ancestors’ souls attain peace and salvation.

Mabon (September 22): Mabon, also known as the Autumn Equinox, falls on September 22nd, 2025. It’s a time for celebrating the second harvest, giving thanks for the bounty of the earth, and acknowledging the shift towards the darker half of the year. Mabon is a day of balance and harmony, as day and night are of equal length.  

Rosh Hashanah (September 22-24): Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year and marks the start of the High Holy Days. It is one of three most observed holidays by all Jewish families. Orthodox and Conservative Jews observe the traditional two-day holiday, while Reform Jews observe only the first day. Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection, prayer, and considering the past year with the hope of a positive new year ahead. The holiday is observed with special meals, synagogue services, and the symbolic blowing of the shofar (ram’s horn).  

Navaratri (September 22-October 2): Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across Northern and Eastern India. This festival symbolizes the nine nights of battle between good and evil, culminating in the victory of good on the tenth day. During this period, Mother Durga is worshipped as the deity of power, energy, and wisdom. 

Tzom Gedaliah (September 25): Tzom Gedaliah is a dawn-to-dusk fast observed on the day after Rosh Hashanah (if that day is Shabbat, it is observed on Sunday). Commemorating the tragic death of Gedaliah, governor of Judea, the day begins with special Selichot liturgy.  

 

We welcome the celebration of each of these holidays on our campuses and encourage support for those requiring accommodations. You can find information and guidance about academic accommodations for religious observations on the Provost Office’s webpage. 

To see more information about resources and events happening this month and throughout the semester, please visit our events page at www.diversity.uconn.edu/events. ODI writes these letters in collaboration with our partners across the UConn system. If we inadvertently omitted a cultural or religious holiday, please let us know by emailing us at diversity@uconn.edu. 

If you would like to receive our ODI Weekly Digest, where you can receive regular updates about upcoming events, programs, and opportunities, subscribe here! 

 

Sincerely,

Jeff and Anne

 

Jeffrey F. Hines, M.D.

Vice President, Office for Diversity and Inclusion, UConn and UConn Health

 

Anne D’Alleva, Ph.D.

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs