Information from a calendar of annual human rights observances on the Morgantown City website and from Diversity Resources.
March: National Women’s History Month
Honors women as significant agents of change.
April: National Child Abuse Prevention Month
A time to emphasize the importance of families and communities working together to prevent child abuse and neglect and to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families.
April: Sexual Assault Awareness Month
A month to promote awareness of sexual assault, harassment, or other abuse to increase prevention efforts to protect all people of all ages.
April: Greek-American Heritage Month
There are nearly 3 million Greek Americans of partial or full Greek ancestry. It is celebrated to coincide with Greece’s Independence Day from the Ottoman Empire. This month, honor and recognize the contributions and achievements of Greek Americans. In fact, the concept of democracy comes from Ancient Greece.
April 1: Youth Homelessness Matters Day
Part of a campaign to create brighter futures for young people who have faced homelessness and to show them they have the power and opportunity to become whatever they put their minds to.
April 2: International Autism Acceptance Day
This day promotes understanding, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals on the autism spectrum, focusing on recognizing their unique strengths and contributions.
April 5: Gold Star Spouses Day
This U.S. observance honors the surviving spouses of military members who lost their lives in service, recognizing their sacrifices and supporting their resilience.
April 7: World Health Day
Calls for an awareness that without nurture and protection of health, persons are vulnerable to economic and social hardship and inability to fully utilize on engage in human rights.
April 9: International Day of Pink
This day stands against bullying, homophobia, transphobia, and all forms of discrimination, with communities worldwide encouraged to wear pink in solidarity. It’s a call for inclusivity and respect, fostering awareness and support for a safer, more accepting world.
April 16: Holocaust Remembrance Day
Anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising – Seeks to commemorate the Holocaust by remembering and honoring the victims of the Holocaust which include six million Jews, thousands of Russian gypsies, homosexuals, persons with disabilities, and others.
April 22: Earth Day
Earth Day raises global awareness about environmental protection, inspiring action to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and promote sustainability. It’s a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the planet for future generations through conscious, everyday choices.
April 24: Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day
This day commemorates the lives lost during the Armenian Genocide, honoring the heritage and resilience of Armenian communities worldwide. It serves as a call for reflection, understanding, and recognition of historical injustices to prevent future atrocities.
March 21: International Forest Day
Call for awareness of the importance of forests in protecting air quality, water retention, plants for pharmaceuticals, habitat for birds and other wildlife – all of which provide a balance for survival of all.
March 22: World Water Day
Calls for awareness of how essential potable water is to the rights of all people in West Virginia and worldwide.
March 25: Medal of Honor Day
A U.S. observance honoring Medal of Honor recipients, this day recognizes those who have demonstrated remarkable valor and sacrifice, highlighting the importance of courage and service.
March 31: Cesar Chavez Day
Honors Mexican American farm worker. Labor leader, and activist Cesar Chavez
March 31: Cesar Chavez Day
Honors Mexican American farm worker. Labor leader, and activist Cesar Chavez
Information from Diversity Resources.
Genocide Awareness Month
Genocide refers to the deliberate and systemic destruction or killing of a group of people because of their ethnicity, race, or religion. Learn about genocide throughout history, including in Rwanda, Cambodia, Bosnia, and Armenia, and the Holocaust. Learn what you can do to help those who are victims of these horrific tragedies.
Paralyzed Veterans Awareness Month
This month, learn about the challenges of veterans living with spinal cord injuries or dysfunction. The Paralyzed Veterans of America has 34 chapters across the country that educate the public about its programs, services, and support for injured veterans and their families. Take time to honor those who make these lifelong sacrifices for our country and freedoms daily.
Information from Diversity Resources.
Scottish-American Month
This month, learn about the culture and contributions of Scottish Americans to society. Tartan Day is celebrated on April 6th to remember the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, which granted Scotland independence from England. Highland games are enjoyed this month, including the hammer throw, tug-of-war, and caber toss. April is a time to learn about the impact that Scottish culture has had on America. Learn about their rich traditions to promote acceptance of all heritages in society.
National Arab-American Month
This month, recognize the contributions of nearly 3.5 million Arab-Americans to all aspects of American culture. It is also a time to raise awareness about anti-Arab bigotry and how to eradicate it. Focus on challenging stereotypes and prejudices in the workplace and beyond this month.
Information from Diversity Resources.
April 10: Jain - Mahavir Jayanti
Mahavir Jayanti celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara in Jainism, revered for his teachings on nonviolence and truth. Jains honor his legacy with prayers, processions, and acts of compassion..
April 12: Jehovah's Witnesses - The Memorial of Jesus’ Death
This solemn observance marks the death of Jesus Christ, viewed as a sacrifice for humankind’s salvation. Jehovah’s Witnesses gather worldwide to commemorate this event with prayer, reflection, and the sharing of bread and wine.
April 13*: Jewish - Passover
Passover, or Pesach, commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, celebrating freedom and resilience. Jewish families gather for a Seder meal, retelling the Exodus story and reflecting on themes of justice and liberation. *means it begins the prior evening.
April 14: Sikh - Vaisakhi
Vaisakhi, marking the harvest season, is also a major religious celebration for Sikhs, commemorating the founding of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh. It is observed with prayer, community gatherings, and processions that honor cultural and spiritual heritage.
April 20: Christian, Coptic, and Eastern Orthodox - Easter
Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolizing hope and renewal in the Christian faith. Observed with services, feasts, and gatherings, it is one of the most significant celebrations across Christian communities.