The DEIA Communications team sends out monthly emails about upcoming diversity awareness events recognized either nationally or internationally due to their cultural, historical, or religious significance. See below for several diversity dates to be aware of in the month of February.
Upcoming Observances
Note that National Freedom Day, Black History Month, and Japanese American Incarceration During World War II are covered under the "Additional Awareness Events this Month" section below.
National Girls and Women in Sports Day
Wednesday, February 1
In 1987, President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5606 to create a National Women in Sports Day to recognize the contributions women's sports have made to this country, and of the need to further advance women's sports. Originally established on February 4, the day is now recognized on a different day each year during the first week in February and the name of the day has been updated to include girls. National Girls and Women in Sports Day also focuses on the importance of sports in women’s and girls’ lives and on the continued efforts needed to ensure equality for women in sports.
Parinirvana Day
Wednesday, February 15
Parinirvana Day, or Nirvana Day, is an annual Buddhist festival that remembers the death of the Buddha when he reached Nirvana at the age of 80. Most Buddhists celebrate Nirvana Day on February 15. Others celebrate it on February 8. The day is used as an opportunity to reflect on one’s own future death and on people whom one has known who have recently died. Meditations are done for the recently deceased to give them help and support wherever they might be now.
Susan B. Anthony Day
Wednesday, February 15
Susan B. Anthony Day is a commemorative holiday to celebrate the birth of Susan B. Anthony. It is currently recognized by four states (California, Florida, New York, and Wisconsin). Susan B. Anthony is known for her leadership in the long campaign for women's right to vote in the United States and abroad. Born in Adams, Massachusetts, a statue of Susan B. Anthony was unveiled at the Adams Town Common in 2021.
The Carnival of Brazil
Friday, February 17
The Carnival of Brazil begins the Friday before Ash Wednesday and is the most popular holiday in Brazil. Similar to Mardi Gras, the festivities mark a time of indulging before Lenten fasting begins. Customs vary by city, including large parades in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Vitoria. The Carnival was originally introduced to Brazil by the Portuguese; Brazilians expanded it to include customs from the country’s African and indigenous backgrounds. Samba dance and music has become an integral part of the carnival.
Maha Shivarati (Hindu)
Saturday, February 18
Maha Shivaratri is a Hindu festival celebrated annually in honor of the god Shiva. This notable, solemn festival marks the "overcoming of darkness and ignorance" in life and the world. It is observed by remembering Shiva and chanting prayers, fasting, and meditating on ethics and virtues such as honesty, non-injury to others, charity, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva.
Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian Lunar New Year)
Tuesday, February 21
Tsagaan Sar, one of the most important Mongolian holidays, celebrates the first day of the year according to the Mongolian lunisolar calendar. It is recognized by Mongol people as well as some Turkic people. On Bituun (New Year’s Eve), families settle any issues of the past year and clean their houses to start the New Year fresh. New Year’s Day customs vary by region and can include burning a candle at an altar to symbolize Buddhist enlightenment, visiting family and friends and exchanging gifts, and dressing in national Mongolian outfits. Foods prepared for celebration also vary by region, and can include dairy products, rice with curds, steamed dumplings, and more.
Mardi Gras or Shrove Tuesday
Tuesday, February 21
Mardi Gras, which means Fat Tuesday, is a Christian holiday that takes place on the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. Known as Shrove Tuesday in Anglican countries, the main focus of the event is to enjoy rich foods before the 40 days of Lenten fasting begins. Several countries celebrate Mardi Gras, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and different regions of the United States. Customs and the duration of the celebration vary by country.
Ash Wednesday
Wednesday, February 22
Ash Wednesday is a Christian holy day of prayer and fasting that marks the start of Lent. Ash Wednesday is traditionally observed by Western Christians. Ashes symbolize mortality and are ceremonially placed on the heads of Christians on Ash Wednesday. The ashes are created from the palm leaves used to celebrate the previous Palm Sunday, a celebration of Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem just days before he was crucified.
Additional Awareness Events this Month
The DEIA Communications team will send out individual communications around the following awareness events this month:
- National Freedom Day and Black History Month
- Day of Remembrance of Japanese American Incarceration During World War II – February 19, 2023