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Date |
Details |
|---|---|
| June |
National Indigenous History Month National Indigenous History Month recognizes the rich histories, cultures, languages, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada. June was designated nationally in 2009 following years of advocacy by Indigenous organizations and communities. The month encourages learning about Indigenous histories and contemporary experiences, while also acknowledging the lasting impacts of colonialism, residential schools, and systemic inequities. It is an opportunity to support truth, reconciliation, and respectful relationships with Indigenous Peoples. |
| June |
Pride Month Pride Month recognizes the histories, contributions, and resilience of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. June was chosen to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City, a pivotal moment in the movement for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights. Pride events began as protests against discrimination and violence and have evolved into celebrations of identity, advocacy, and inclusion. The month also highlights the ongoing work needed to address inequities and support the rights and safety of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions. |
| June |
Seniors Month Seniors Month is recognized across Canada as a time to celebrate the contributions, achievements, and experiences of older adults in communities and workplaces. The observance also raises awareness of issues affecting seniors, including social inclusion, accessibility, health, and ageism. It encourages recognition of the important roles seniors play as leaders, caregivers, volunteers, knowledge keepers, and community members. To learn more, visit: Celebrating seniors in Ontario |
| June |
DeafBlind Awareness Month DeafBlind Awareness Month raises awareness about the experiences and contributions of people who are deafblind. June was chosen to recognize the birth month of Helen Keller, an internationally known advocate who was deafblind and worked to advance disability rights and accessibility. The month highlights the importance of communication access, intervenor services, and removing barriers to inclusion for individuals living with combined vision and hearing loss. |
| June |
Filipino Heritage Month Filipino Heritage Month was officially recognized in Canada in 2018 through the Filipino Heritage Month Act. June was selected to coincide with Philippine Independence Day on June 12, commemorating the Philippines’ declaration of independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898. The month celebrates the histories, cultures, traditions, and contributions of Filipino Canadians, one of the fastest-growing and largest Asian communities in Canada. |
| June 15 |
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Established by the United Nations in 2006, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day raises awareness about the physical, emotional, financial, and social abuse experienced by older adults worldwide. The day promotes the protection of the rights, dignity, and well-being of seniors and encourages action to prevent neglect, isolation, and mistreatment. It also highlights the importance of creating safe, inclusive, and supportive communities for older adults. |
| June 20 |
World Refugee Day World Refugee Day was established by the United Nations in 2001 to honour the strength, resilience, and contributions of refugees around the world. The day recognizes individuals and families who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, violence, or human rights violations. It also raises awareness about the rights of refugees and the importance of protection, inclusion, and humanitarian support. |
| June 21 |
National Indigenous Peoples Day National Indigenous Peoples Day recognizes and celebrates the diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples in Canada. First proclaimed in 1996, June 21 was chosen because it coincides with the summer solstice, which holds cultural and spiritual significance for many Indigenous communities and has long been a time for gathering, ceremony, and celebration. The day provides an opportunity for learning, reflection, and participation in celebrations that honour Indigenous Peoples and cultures. |
| June 27 |
Canadian Multiculturalism Day Canadian Multiculturalism Day celebrates the cultural diversity of people living in Canada and reflects the country’s multiculturalism policy, introduced in 1971. Established in 2002, the day recognizes the contributions of diverse communities to Canadian society and encourages dialogue, inclusion, and cross-cultural understanding. It also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the importance of equity, anti-racism, and belonging in multicultural communities. To learn more, visit: Canadian Multiculturalism Day |
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that the City of Pickering resides on land within the Treaty and traditional territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Williams Treaties signatories of the Mississauga and Chippewa Nations. Pickering is also home to many Indigenous persons and communities who represent other diverse, distinct, and autonomous Indigenous nations. This acknowledgement reminds us of our responsibilities to our relationships with the First Peoples of Canada, and to the ancestral lands on which we learn, share, work, and live.
Recognition of cultural, historical, and equity-related observances
The City of Pickering is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community where diversity is recognized and celebrated.
Each month, we highlight significant cultural, historical, and equity-related observances that encourage reflection, learning, and mutual respect among all Pickering residents.
Note: The following list highlights key equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) observances. It is not an exhaustive list of all significant cultural, religious, and commemorative dates. For a more comprehensive overview of observances recognized across the Region, please visit the Region of Durham Multicultural Calendar.
Inclusive Observances - June Dates
Inclusive Observances - July Dates
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Date |
Details |
|---|---|
| July |
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/ |
| July |
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/ |
| July 14 |
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 |
| July 17 |
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. |
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy
The City of Pickering is committed to embedding equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) into the fabric of its organization and community to foster a sense of belonging, empowerment and respect for all. We strive to develop policies, practices and programs that advance EDI as a standard of public service by engaging diverse perspectives and experiences, eliminating systemic barriers, and promoting community cohesion.
The City approved its first EDI Strategy in May 2024. This foundational document is essential to ensuring that our organization prioritizes equity, diversity and inclusion at every level of decision making and operations so that our policies, programs, services and facilities reflect and serve the diverse needs of the community.
The Strategy identifies five priority areas of focus and recommendations for action related to:
- Education and Awareness
- Structure and Resources
- Community Consultation and Engagement
- Policies, Practices and Programs
- Measurement and Accountability
By implementing an EDI Strategy, the City will have the framework to enhance existing government policies and practices for staff, residents, and the broader community.
Additional Resources
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