Information from a calendar of annual human rights observances on the Morgantown City website and from Diversity Resources.
December 1: World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day is observed globally on December 1st each year to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, honor those who have lost their lives to the disease, and support those living with HIV.
December 2: International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
Slavery is not just history but affects over 30 million persons throughout the world today. Its roots are in discrimination, poverty and indebtedness, vulnerability, and the rule of law.
December 3: International Human Rights Day
On this day in 1948 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Help all your employees feel included, including those with disabilities. On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, host a training session to avoid unconscious bias and help employees understand why having an accessible workplace is essential. By creating an inclusive work culture, your staff can have a better understanding of those they work with, and those with a disability will feel a sense of belonging.
December 16: Bill of Rights Day
Commemorates the signing into law of the ten original amendments of the United States Constitution in 1791 – including the First Amendment Rights of religion, association, speech, petition, and press.
December 18: International Migrants Day
A day to affirm commitment to diverse and open societies which provide opportunities and lives of dignity for all migrants.
Information from a calendar of diversity events from Diversity Resources.
December 16: Las Posadas
Typically celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries, this time of prayer refers to the Spanish word posada for lodging or home. This comes from the Nativity story where Mary gives birth to Jesus in an inn. For many Catholics and Protestants alike, this is an extremely religious time of reflection approaching Christmas, so refraining from scheduling meetings on this day is advisable.
December 22: Winter Solstice or Yule
Celebrated in both Pagan and Wiccan faiths, Yule or Yuletide originated as a festival in Germany, which celebrated the newborn solstice sun.
December 25: Christmas
Observed every December 25, nearly 160 countries globally celebrate this holiday. While a religious holiday for Christians, it is also widely recognized as a cultural holiday in many countries. While the date of celebration may vary among different churches, they all honor it for the same reason, the birth of Jesus who died for their sins. It is holy day of obligation for Roman Catholics.