- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion > Cultural Calendars
May 2024
All Month
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is the time to raise awareness for and educate the public about mental illnesses and strategies for attaining mental health. It also aims to reduce the stigma that surrounds mental illnesses.
All Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month recognizes the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.
All Month
Jewish American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month is an annual recognition and celebration of American Jews' achievements and contributions to the United States.
3
May
Orthodox Good Friday
Orthodox Good Friday is a strict day of fasting for many Greek Orthodox Christians and serves as the Orthodox recognition of Jesus’ crucifixion.
5
May
Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the date of the Mexican army's May 5, 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. While this didn’t lead to Mexican independence, it likely contributed to Napoleon’s eventual withdrawal. In the United States, Cinco de Mayo is often associated with the celebration of Mexican-American culture.
5
May
Kodomo no Hi
Kodomo no Hi, whose origins come from a historic festival called Tango no Sekku, is a public holiday in Japan that celebrates children and their happiness.
12
May
Mother's Day
Mother's Day is a celebration honoring mothers, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society.
17
May
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia
The anniversary of when the WHO removed homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases, and is used to raise awareness for the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals around the world.
23
May
Vesak
Vesak, or Buddha Day, recognizes the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha and is traditionally celebrated in South and Southeast Asia.
25
May
African Liberation Day
This day is used for political organization and education to show commitment to the total liberation and unification of Africa.
25-26
May
Lag BaOmer
Lag BaOmer, also Lag B'Omer or Lag LaOmer, is a Jewish religious holiday celebrated on the 33rd day of the Counting of the Omer, which occurs on the 18th day of the Hebrew month of Iyar.
25
May
International Missing Children's Day
Every year on May 25, Global Missing Children's Network (GMCN) members pay respect to and honor missing and abducted children while celebrating those who have been recovered.
27
May
Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States armed forces.