Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy

Emancipation Day

On August 1, 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act took effect aiding in the liberation of over 800,000 enslaved African people in Canada, the Caribbean, South America, and South Africa. On March 24, 2021, the House of Commons voted unanimously to officially designate August 1st Emancipation Day.

Emancipation Day celebrates the strength and perseverance of Black communities in Canada. On this day and every day, Canadians are invited to reflect, educate and engage in the ongoing fight against both anti-Black racism and discrimination.

To learn more visit:
https://pickering.bibliocommons.com/v2/list/display/73092140/2352077349

International Day of the World's Indigenous People

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is an occasion to celebrate the distinct cultures and contributions of the estimated 476 million Indigenous Peoples living across 90 countries, including Canada. It is also an opportunity to reaffirm Indigenous Peoples right to self-determination.

Today, we reaffirm our commitments to continue listening to, learning from and working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities on Turtle Island and beyond.

To learn more visit:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/indigenous-day

International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief

This day honours individuals and communities who have experienced violence, persecution, discrimination, or other human rights violations because of their religion or beliefs. It reinforces the importance of freedom of religion, conscience, and belief, while encouraging respect, understanding and inclusion across faiths, spiritual traditions, and non-religious beliefs.

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition

This day remembers the millions of African people who were forcibly displaced and enslaved through the transatlantic slave trade, while honouring the resistance and courage of those who fought for freedom. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the continuing impacts of slavery, colonialism, anti-Black racism and racial inequality, and to reaffirm the importance of education, remembrance and collective action.

To learn more visit:
https://www.unesco.org/en/days/slave-trade-remembrance

International Day for the People of African Descent

On August 31st we commemorate the International Day for People of African Descent (IDPAD), a time to celebrate the achievements and the cultural, economic, political and scientific contributions of people of the African diaspora throughout history, in Canada and around the world. It is also a day to remember the enslavement and trade of millions of African people and to recognize that the legacies of enslavement and colonialism have led to the contemporary forms of racism, inequities, and exclusion that continue to affect Black communities today.

To learn more visit:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/african-descent-day

Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride initially started as a day of celebration in 1990 and was held in Boston. This is the same year that the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed. Today, it is celebrated around the world, including in Canada, where 22 % or 6.2 million Canadians live with a disability. The first celebration of Disability Pride Month was in 2015, which marked the 25th anniversary of the ADA being signed.

It is a day to accept and honour each person’s uniqueness and promote visibility and mainstream awareness of positive pride felt by people with disabilities.  

To learn more, visit: www.supportedemployment.ca/disability-pride-month/ 

South Asian Heritage Month

South Asian Heritage Month is recognized in July and celebrates the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of people with roots in South Asia, including countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives. The month provides an opportunity to learn about the diverse languages, traditions, faiths, arts, and experiences that shape South Asian communities. It also encourages reflection on the important social, cultural, economic, and civic contributions South Asian Canadians have made and continue to make in communities across the country.

To learn more, visit: www.southasianheritage.org.uk/south-asian-heritage-month/about-sahm/ 

International Non-Binary People's Day

Observed every year on July 14, International Non-binary Peoples Day raises awareness about the experiences of non‑binary individuals—people whose gender identity doesn’t fit within the traditional categories of male or female.

Learn more about gender diversity at www.pickering.bibliocommons.com/v2/list/display/73092140/2331444185 

World Day for International Justice

Observed annually on July 17, World Day for International Justice promotes accountability, human rights, and the rule of law around the world. The date marks the adoption of the Rome Statute in 1998, the treaty that established the International Criminal Court (ICC). This day encourages reflection on the importance of addressing serious crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity, while recognizing ongoing efforts to advance justice, equality, and peace for all people.