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🔗 Learn more

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Jewish - Yom Kippur (Sept. 20-21)

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Fasting: Jewish - Yom Kippur (Sept. 20-21)

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🔗 Learn more

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Eid al-Adha (Islam) | May 16 +/- one day 🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Jewish - Yom Kippur (Sept. 20-21), Sukkot (Sept. 25-Oct. 1)

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High impact: Jewish - Yom Kippur (Sept. 20-21), Sukkot (Sept. 25-Oct. 1)

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🔗Yom Kippur | Sept. 20-21

Yom Kippur fast day is the holiest day of the year—when we are closest to G‑d and to the quintessence of our own souls. It is the Day of Atonement—“For on this day He will forgive you, to purify you, that you be cleansed from all your sins before G‑d” (Leviticus 16:30).

🔗Sukkot | Sept. 25-Oct. 1

Sukkot, lasting one week, starts five days after the High Holy Day of Yom Kippur and is named after temporary, flimsy shelters called sukkahs that Jews build and dwell in to remind them of the transitory 40 years spent wandering in the desert after they escaped slavery in ancient Egypt. Sukkot also celebrates the bounty of the seasonal harvest.

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Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month | May

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Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month | May

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Our diverse community provides opportunities to learn and celebrate with each other.

We highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity.

National Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month celebrates Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. May was chosen to commemorate the Chinese immigrants who completed the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869 and the first Japanese immigrants to the United States in May 1843.

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Our diverse community provides opportunities to learn and celebrate with each other. We highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity.

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Eid al-Fitr (Islam) | Mar. 9 +/- one day 🔗 Learn more

Nowruz (Persian New Year) | Mar. 20 🔗 Learn more

Purim (Judaism) | Mar. 22-23 🔗 Learn more

Holi (Hindu) | Mar. 22 🔗 Learn more

Easter (Christian/Catholic) | Mar. 28 🔗 Learn more

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Ashura is a holy day for Muslims all over the world, observed on the 9th and 10th day of Muharram, according to the Islamic calendar.

🔗 Learn more

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We continue to highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity.

This June, we support and learn about Pride. As Juneteenth nears, we prepare ourselves with resources, local and beyond, to ensure we all know more about this now federally observed holiday.

Thank you for continuing this journey of learning and healing with us.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month (LGBT Pride Month) is celebrated annually in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall riots, and works to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning (LGBTQ) Americans. In June of 1969, patrons and supporters of the Stonewall Inn in New York City staged an uprising to resist the police harassment and persecution to which LGBT Americans were commonly subjected. This uprising marks the beginning of a movement to outlaw discriminatory laws and practices against LGBT Americans.

Today, celebrations include pride parades, picnics, parties, workshops, symposia and concerts, and LGBT Pride Month events attract millions of participants around the world. Memorials are held during this month for those members of the community who have been lost to hate crimes or HIV/AIDS. The purpose of the commemorative month is to recognize the impact that LGBTQ individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.

Federal and local policies and practices are increasingly acknowledging and focusing on LGBTQ youth and numerous national advocacy and other organizations are also giving greater attention to LGBTQ youth in their work. Encouraging greater acceptance and support for all youth, including those who are or are perceived to be LGBTQ, will make communities, schools, and other settings safer, better places for all youth.

Source: youth.gov

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We continue to highlight heritage and identity months in Bellingham Public Schools to recognize contributions of various groups in the United States, many who remain underserved in education. We honor and acknowledge diversity allowing us to explore the origins of heritage and identity. This June, we support and learn about Pride.

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High impact: East and South Asian cultures - Lunar New Year (Sat., Feb. 6)

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High impact: East and South Asian cultures - Lunar New Year (Sat., Feb. 6)

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🔗 Learn more

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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women | May 5

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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women | May 5

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Native Heritage and History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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On the Gregorian calendar, it's a whole new year!

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High impact: Jewish - Hanukkah (Chanukah) (Dec. 14-22)

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High impact: Jewish - Hanukkah (Chanukah) (Dec. 14-22)

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Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism's holiest days. Meaning "head of the year" or "first of the year," the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two "High Holy Days" in the Jewish religion.

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Jewish History and Heritage - March 13th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month | July

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Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month | July

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Black, Indigenous and People of Color Mental Health Month

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July is Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) Mental Health Month. We know school communities and policies that prioritize mental health literacy can create safer spaces where all young people can thrive—especially BIPOC students, who face disparities in mental health care. We hope you’ll co…

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Juneteenth celebrates the ending of slavery in the United States. One more time for those in the back: Juneteenth celebrates the ending of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and his Union soldiers arrived in Gavelston, Texas, and delivered General Order Number 3:

"The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the
Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired laborer."

This history may not align with the history many of were taught about the end of slavery. The Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Lincoln on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth.com provides possible explanations of the discrepancy:

A messenger who was murdered on his way to Texas with the news of freedom

The news was deliberately withheld by the enslavers to maintain the labor force on the plantations

Federal troops actually waited for the slave owners to reap the benefits of one last cotton harvest before going to Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation

How do we honor and celebrate Juneteenth?

There are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth, including street fairs and concerts. Because of the holiday's Southern roots, barbecue is a must, and red foods like strawberry soda and red velvet cake are traditionally served as the color is "a symbol of ingenuity and resilience in bondage," according to The New York Times.

Additional honors and recognitions occur in learning and finding connections across cultures. Oprah Daily suggests "learning about major firsts from African Americans, read a book by a Black author, catch a film that honors Black life, or support Black-owned companies. But most importantly, remember that all of those things shouldn't just happen on Juneteenth, but every day. Because it's never a bad time to celebrate the independence of everyone in our country."

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African Americans throughout the nation celebrate Juneteenth, but who knows what actually happened on June 19, 1865? As the nation observes the second federal legal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, there are a number of misconceptions about the historical event that keep getting repeated.

Myth #1: President Abraham Lincoln issued his Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, and it's outrageous that it took two and a half years for the news to finally reach enslaved people in Texas.

Fact: Many slaves knew about Lincoln's executive order emancipating them. The news was widely covered in Texas newspapers-with an anti-abolitionist spin-and Black people would have overheard white people discussing it in private and in public. Moreover, "There was an incredibly sophisticated communication network among slaves in Texas," says Edward T. Cotham, Jr., Texas Civil War historian and author of Juneteenth, The Story Behind The Celebration. "News like that spread like wildfire. We know some slaves knew about the Emancipation Proclamation even before slaveowners. It didn't mean anything because there was no army to enforce it."

June Collins Pulliam is a fifth-generation Galvestonian whose enslaved great-great-grandparents, Horace and Emily Scull, were freed by the Juneteenth Order. "It wasn't that all these poor people didn't get the message," she says, "It was that there was no one enforcing it, no one making it happen!"

Myth #2: Major Gen. Gordon Granger penned General Orders No. 3, the Juneteenth Order, and is credited with freeing Texas slaves.

Fact: The order-which includes the powerful language "all slaves are free" and "absolute equality"-was actually written by Granger's staff officer, Maj. Frederick Emery, who hailed from an abolitionist family in Free Kansas. "As a crusader against slavery in Kansas, Emery was well versed on the subject of emancipation," writes Cotham in his Juneteenth book.

Sam Collins III, the unofficial ambassador of Juneteenth tourism in Galveston, says, "Granger is just one of the characters in the story. He's not any great hero. Matter of fact, he was no friend of the enslaved people. There are reports of Granger sending runaway slaves back to slave states."

Myth #3: Gen. Gordon Granger read the Juneteenth Order from a balcony to the people of Galveston, announcing that "all slaves are free."

Fact: According to Cotham, Gen. Granger never read the order publicly, nor did any member of his staff. It would have been posted around town, particularly at places where Black people gathered, such as "the Negro Church on Broadway," as Reedy Chapel-AME Church was then called. Most enslaved people in Texas learned of General Orders No. 3 when the slavemaster called them together and read them the news.

Myth #4: The Juneteenth Order was basically a Texas version of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Fact: General Orders No. 3 stated unequivocally "all slaves are free," but it also contained patronizing language intended to appease planters who didn't want to lose their workforce. Forty-one words of the brief 93-word order urged enslaved people to stay put and keep working.
"The freed are advised to remain at their present homes, and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere."
Sam Collins: "The last two sentences advised the freedmen to remain at their present homes and work for wages. So you're free, but don't go anywhere."

Ed Cotham: "Many years later, the formerly enslaved (interviewed for the 1930s WPA Slave Narratives) remembered when the Freedom Paper was read to them. The slaveholder wanted to keep them working, but they didn't hear it that way. Once they heard "all slaves are free" they said to hell with you. That's what made the Juneteenth Order so memorable and made it succeed."

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Four enduring myths about Juneteenth are not based on facts

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African Americans throughout the nation celebrate Juneteenth, but who knows what actually happened on June 19, 1865? As the nation observes the second federal legal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, there are a number of misconceptions about the historical event that keep getting repeated.

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High impact: Hindu - Diwali (Oct. 20) and Gujarati New Year (Oct. 22)

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High impact: Hindu - Diwali (Oct. 20) and Gujarati New Year (Oct. 22)

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All About Diwali

Every autumn, as nights grow longer and the air turns crisp, more than a billion people around the globe gather to celebrate Diwali/Deepavali — the “festival of lights.” And our brand new two-minute animated video is designed to get you primed for learning all about one of the most sacred festivals in Hindu Dharma traditions!

Gujarati New Year – Why Is It Different?

According to mythology, King Vikramaditya, a legendary monarch of ancient India, established the Vikram Samvat calendar around 57 BCE. Gujarati New Year is observed on the very first day of the Hindu month of Kartik, which occurs in October or November according to the Gregorian calendar.

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High impact: Baha'i - Birth of Bab, Baha'u'llah (Oct. 22)

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High impact: Baha'i - Birth of Bab, Baha'u'llah (Oct. 22)

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Celebrating the Birthdays of the Bab and Baha’u’llah

Baha’is celebrate the births of both the Bab and Baha’u’llah, the two prophets associated with the Baha’i revelation, in quick succession—one right after the other.

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Fasting: The Baha'i Fast (Baha'i) | Mar. 1-20 

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Fasting: The Baha'i Fast (Baha'i) | Mar. 1-20 

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🔗 Learn more

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Indigenous Peoples' Day | Monday, Oct. 13

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Indigenous Peoples' Day | Monday, Oct. 13

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✨2025 Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration ✨

nilh tu o: Weaving the Past, Present and Future

📅 Monday, October 13, 2025
🕠 Doors open: 5:30 p.m. (with dinner service)
🎤 Program: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
💃 Jam + dancing: 8:00 p.m.–late

📍 Location: Lummi Nation School
2334 Lummi View Dr, Bellingham, WA

For more information, https://www.wwu.edu/indigenous-peoples-day

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thumbnail_Indigenous Peoples Day 2025 11x17

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Feb. 7-Mar. 8)

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Feb. 7-Mar. 8)

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🔗 Learn more

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Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism's holiest days. Meaning "head of the year" or "first of the year," the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two "High Holy Days" in the Jewish religion.

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Jewish History and Heritage - March 13th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Native Heritage and History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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High impact: Christian - Christmas Eve, Christmas (Dec. 24, Dec. 25 )

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High impact: Christian - Christmas Eve, Christmas (Dec. 24, Dec. 25 )

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Teaching Juneteenth

Classroom Guide for book Juneteenth Jamboree

Zinn Ed Project

Frederick Douglas on the 4th of July

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Telugu/Kannada - Ugadi/Yugadi New Year | Apr. 7 🔗 Learn more

Sikh/Tamil - Vaisakhi/Vishu New Year | Apr. 14 🔗 Learn more

Passover (Judaism) | Apr. 21-29 🔗 Learn more

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High impact: Baha'i - Day of the Covenant (Nov. 24-25)

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High impact: Baha'i - Day of the Covenant (Nov. 24-25)

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🔗 Learn more

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Feb. 10-Mar. 27)

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Feb. 10-Mar. 27)

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🔗 Learn more

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Harvey Milk was a human rights leader in the United States, winning a seat in the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. He advocated for a wide range of human rights and environmental protections. As an openly gay leader, he helped pass a gay rights ordinance for the city of San Francisco that prohibited anti-gay discrimination in housing and employment. He is remembered for his work on equality.

“All young people, regardless of sexual orientation or identity, deserve a safe and supportive environment in which to achieve their full potential.” - Harvey Milk

How do we bring Harvey Milk's legacy into our conversations?

Learn more at the Milk Foundation

Celebrate Harvey’s legacy by flying a rainbow or peace/freedom flag

Read Milks Speech “Hope”

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September marks National Deaf Awareness Month, a time to promote awareness, understanding, and inclusion of the d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. The month focuses on educating the public about deafness, breaking down stereotypes, and advocating for equal rights, access, and opportunities. Why Deaf Awareness Matters Promoting Inclusivity: Deaf Awareness Month is an opportunity to promote inclusivity...

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Treaty Day teaching and learning resources for elementary and secondary.

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Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - Bellingham School District No 501

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Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - Bellingham School District No 501

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Buddhist families celebrate Bodhi Day on Dec. 8, signifying the day Prince Siddhartha Gautama sat underneath the Bodhi tree and attained enlightenment. Mahayana Buddhists in China, Korea and Vietnam honor Bodhi Day as part of a larger tradition. Mahayana Buddhists celebrate Bodhi Day on the eighth day of the twelfth month of the lunar calendar, which means the dates change from year to year. In Japan, however, Bodhi Day follows the Gregorian calendar. Every year, Bodhi Day in Japan is celebrated on Dec. 8.

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All About the Holidays (K-5)

Juneteenth for Mazie (K-5)
Juneteenth (6-12)
What is Juneteenth (interactive 9-12)

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Fasting: Hindu - Maha Shivaratri (Sat., Mar. 6)

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Fasting: Hindu - Maha Shivaratri (Sat., Mar. 6)

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🔗 Learn more

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Our diverse community provides opportunities to learn and celebrate with each other. We highlight heritage and identity months in…

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On this day we take the time to observe and honor the individuals who died for the United States of America by their service in the US Armed Forces. We usually date the start of this event to 1868 because the first Memorial Day has been erased from our collective history. This holiday began with thousands of freed Black people in Charleston, SC in 1865. They properly buried hundreds of Union soldiers and commemorated the end of the Civil War in a series of events, including a parade by 3,000 Black children, sermons, and picnics, that were attended 10,000 Black residents of the city. Furthermore, "African American veterans claimed a prominent position in the observation of Memorial Day" through the 1910s (Source).

🔗 Learn about the forgotten Black origins & history of Memorial Day

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https://www.smore.com/h0z65-jewish-history-and-heritage

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Check out this Presentation designed by Janis Velasquez Farmer.

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Observed annually on Dec. 10, this year's Human Rights Day theme, EQUALITY - Reducing inequalities, advancing human rights, aligns with the United Nations' principle that equality is at the heart of human rights.

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Native/Indigenous History and Heritage Month | November

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Native/Indigenous History and Heritage Month | November

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Orange shirt day, September 30th, serves as a conversation about the realities of residential schools and the impacts of cultural genocide on Indigenous peoples. The commemoration honors Indigenous peoples and brings communities together to repair relationships.

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The Weekly Update #4 - September 6th, 2023 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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This resource will be updated as we receive details about upcoming events.

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The annual King Holiday Observance is a time that we celebrate, commemorate and honor the life, legacy and impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Global citizens will have unique opportunities to learn and unite in celebration of Dr. King's groundbreaking work and Mrs. Coretta Scott King's powerful continuation and formal institutionalization of that work through a variety of engaging events.

Source: The King Center

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Elementary and secondary lessons to bring Black history, present, and futures into classrooms and homes.

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Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - Bellingham School District No 501

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Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - Bellingham School District No 501

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Las Posadas and Noche Buena | Dec. 16-24

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Las Posadas and Noche Buena | Dec. 16-24

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Dec. 16 marks the beginning of celebrations in some Mexican traditions. Carols, a parade and a piñata are among the many highlights of the season, which lasts until Dec. 24. Noche Buena, on Dec. 24, is an anticipatory celebration where families gather in community often well into the night. Celebrations vary widely, but common elements include high energy festivity, food, music and community.

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April 1st-April 30th

The month of April is a time to formally recognize the achievements of Arab Americans through honoring and celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month.

Informatiive Clip About the History of Arab American History MOnth

Arab Americans Speak About Some of Their Experiences Being Arab American

K-12 Lesson Plans for Arab American Heritage Month

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The month of April is a time to formally recognize the achievements of Arab Americans through honoring and celebrating National Arab American Heritage Month. Informatiive Clip About the History of Arab American History MOnth Arab Americans Speak About Some of Their Experiences Being Arab American

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Transgender Day of Remembrance (Nov. 20)

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Transgender Day of Remembrance (Nov. 20)

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Since its creation, October has been to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality.

Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11th and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979 on Oct. 14th. The month now also includes Spirit Day - observed this year on Oct. 19th, during which people around the world wear or display the color purple in support of LGBT youth. October is also home to GLSEN's Ally Week.

Source: GLAAD.org

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Since its creation, October has been to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality. Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct.

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Valentine's Day |  Sunday, Feb. 14 + Resources 

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Valentine's Day |  Sunday, Feb. 14 + Resources 

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The clip above contains one idea behind the history of Valentines Day.  There is mention of execution.

https://www.history.com/news/6-surprising-facts-about-st-valentine

The link above contains literature that expresses multiple ideas behind the history of Valentines Day.  There is mention of execution.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmggznT0t5Y

The link above is the most appropriate for younger students.  It contains one idea behind the history of Valentines Day. It mentions the death of Saint Valentine, but does not explicitly state details about execution.

Valentine's Day

Feb. 14 comes around every year, marked by traditional card envelopes, chocolates, conversation hearts, cards, and love. Did you know that Pope Gelasius declared the 14th day of February Feast Day for St. Valentine, a Roman saint and martyr, in 496 AD?

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Animated history of Saint Valentine Subtitles

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Catholic Filipino traditions include a nine-day series of Masses in anticipation of Dec. 25. Simbang Gabi begins Dec. 16 and ends Dec. 24 with Misa de Gallo, a midnight mass. One origin story states that priests from the Spanish colonization period held pre-dawn masses so farmers could attend before going to work.

Filipino homes might be decorated with parols, colorful star-shaped lanterns to light up the festivities.

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Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively.

Source: National Hispanic Heritage Month

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Latino/a, Latinx, Hispanic Heritage - August 8th, 2022 by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, nonprofits, businesses and more

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Feb. 7-Mar. 8)

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Fasting: Islam - Ramadan (Feb. 7-Mar. 8)

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🔗 Learn more

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Americans of Chinese Descent History Month - WA

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Americans of Chinese Descent History Month - WA

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To celebrate January being named Americans of Chinese Descent History Month in Washington, public schools are encouraged to designate time in January for appropriate activities in commemoration of the lives, history, achievements, and contributions of Chinese Americans and Americans of Chinese descent.

This site includes posters of Washington State leaders of Chinese decent.

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In the northern hemisphere, the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year and the start of winter, will occur on Dec. 21.

Winter solstice traditions share themes of gathering and sharing food with family and community, taking place in the darkest and coldest time of the year. Shorter days and colder weather brings us indoors and provides time for introspection and focus on personal goals.

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Feb. 10-Mar. 27)

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Fasting: Christian - Lent (Feb. 10-Mar. 27)

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🔗 Learn more

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Around the world, Christmas traditions vary. The annual Christian celebration is held on Dec. 25 to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The name joins "Christ" and "mass" to mean the holy mass of Christ.

Some cultures focus on giving during Christmas, and others see it as a time of spiritual growth, healing, and belonging.

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Fasting: Christian/Catholic - Good Friday (Friday, Mar. 26)

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Fasting: Christian/Catholic - Good Friday (Friday, Mar. 26)

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Not all who observe Good Friday fast. Many observers avoid eating meat on Good Friday and all Fridays during Lent.

🔗 Learn more

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From Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, a tradition for many Black Americans includes celebrating umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (collective work and responsibility), ujamaa (cooperative economics), nia (purpose), kuumba (creativity) and imani (faith), or Kwanzaa. Kwanzaa was created by Maulana Karenga to unite and empower the African American community, modeled after African harvest festivals.

The celebration caps on Dec. 31 with a banquet featuring food from various African countries. If gifts are exchanged, they are often homemade or purchased from Black-owned businesses.

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Native Heritage and History by Bellingham Schools EDI | This newsletter was created with Smore, an online tool for creating beautiful newsletters for educators, businesses and more

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Teacher Resources: Trans Day of Visibility | Mar. 31

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Teacher Resources: Trans Day of Visibility | Mar. 31

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Gender terminology discussion guide

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Friday, March 31, is the eighth annual Transgender Day of Visibility. It's a day to show support for the trans community as well as recognize the accomplishments of trans individuals the world over. According to the Trans Student Educational Resources, this year's theme is "Trans Resistance," and anyone who wants to take part can do so through discussion, direct action, and dissemination of information. For elementary school educators, Welcoming Schools has several suggestions for participation.

To support transgender students, teachers need to be proactive in moving beyond the limitations of the gender binary in order to provide a learning environment that is gender-expansive and welcoming to all. A great starting place is the Welcoming Schools "Developing a Gender Inclusive School" resource. This framework provides steps that will help schools and districts to create a foundation for gender inclusive practices.

The approach is threefold: structural, relational, and instructional. A structural approach might be a bullying and harassment policy that enumerates gender identity as a protected class. Relational approaches include honoring the name and pronouns a student uses. An example of an instructional approach is this lesson that helps student to see, appreciate, and understand each other as individuals.

Another step schools can take to support transgender students is to provide professional development for teachers. Welcoming Schools offers training modules that specifically address the needs of transgender students: Creating Gender-expansive Schools and Supporting Transgender and Non-binary Students.

Taking place the week Gavin Grimm's case was supposed to be heard by the Supreme Court, Trans Day of Visibility assumes perhaps an even greater significance. At a time when trans youth are feeling increasingly marginalized, seeing their teachers take positive action on their behalf will go a long way toward providing a safer experience in school.
HRC Foundation's Welcoming Schools is the nation's premier professional development program dedicated to creating respectful and supportive elementary schools by embracing family diversity, creating LGBTQ- and gender-inclusive schools, preventing bias-based bullying and supporting transgender and non-binary students.

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Trans Day of Visibility: Actions for Elementary Educators

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Friday, March 31, is the eighth annual Transgender Day of Visibility. It's a day to show support for the trans community as well as recognize the accomplishments of trans individuals the world over. According to the Trans Student Educational Resources, this year's theme is "Trans Resistance," and anyone who wants to take part can do so through discussion, direct action, and dissemination of information.

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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | March

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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month | March

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This curriculum connects disability rights into the broader civil rights movement, to perceive disability as a reflection of societal views of differences, and to treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Level K-5

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This curriculum connects disability rights into the broader civil rights movement, to perceive disability as a reflection of societal views of differences, and to treat people with disabilities with respect and dignity. Level K-5

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The Feast of Sacrifice is celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide. The holiday might be celebrated with communal prayer, donations to charities, and a visit and gift exchange with family and friends.

The holiday begins on the 10th day of the lunar calendar. In 2022, the dates for Eid-ul-Adha are July 9-July 10.

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Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Muslims will celebrate it in most countries on July 31.

Eid al-Adha is the second major Muslim festival after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting [Manish Swarup/AP Photo]

Muslims around the world have begun celebrating the annual festival of Eid al-Adha - the Festival of Sacrifice - which falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and last month of the Muslim lunar calendar.

Eid al-Adha is the second major Muslim festival after Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting.

The occasion will be celebrated in most countries on Friday, July 31.

As the coronavirus pandemic rages, many Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates and Algeria have announced restrictions on public gatherings.

Here are five things to know about Eid al-Adha:

Origins

Muslims believe the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) was tested by God who commanded him to sacrifice his first-born son, Ismail (Ishmail).

Ibrahim was prepared to submit to the command, but God stayed his hand. Instead, he was told to sacrifice an animal, likely a lamb or sheep.

The Torah and the Old Testament both recount a similar version of this story.

End of Hajj

The event also marks the end of Hajj, a five-day pilgrimage all able-bodied and financially capable Muslims are obliged to undertake once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage is believed to cleanse the soul of sins and instil a sense of equality, sisterhood and brotherhood.

Some 2.5 million pilgrims from around the world flock annually to the cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia for the ritual.

This year, however, Saudi Arabia announced it would hold a "very limited" Hajj because of the coronavirus pandemic, with only about 10,000 people living in the kingdom allowed to take part in the pilgrimage.

Eid prayers

Performing extra prayers in the morning are how most Muslims begin celebrating Eid.

Mosques are packed with worshippers with outside arrangements made to accommodate large groups of people.

This year, however, mosques will limit the number of attendees, and large congregations will be banned in many countries to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

Sacrificing an animal

The occasion is marked by the sacrifice of an animal that Muslims can eat - a goat, sheep, cow or camel - by those who can afford to do so.

In many parts of the Muslim world, special livestock markets are set up for people to buy an animal for the Eid sacrifice.

This year, amid the coronavirus pandemic, numerous apps and websites have appeared in countries such as India and Bangladesh, where animals will be sold online to limit exposure to the virus.

Distribution of meat

The animal sacrifice comes with an element of charity, as the person paying for the sacrifice is required to distribute part of it to others.

The meat of the sacrificed animal is divided among three groups: the person sacrificing it and their immediate family, extended family and friends, and those in need.

Some Muslims will pay the value of an animal to one of a number of Muslim charities around the world that collect funds for remote animal sacrifices, distributing the meat to underprivileged groups - including refugees, the elderly and disabled people.

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What is Eid al-Adha and how is it celebrated?

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Also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, Muslims will celebrate it in most countries on July 31. Muslims around the world have begun celebrating the annual festival of Eid al-Adha - the Festival of Sacrifice - which falls on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th and last month of the Muslim lunar calendar.

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Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

Teaching Resources:

Dolores Huerta Lesson Plans (K-12 + Teacher Guides)

Smithsonian Learning Lab | Hispanic Heritage Month Resources

Latino Poetry Blog: Blogging as a Forum for Open Discussion (Gr. 8-12)

Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote: A Migrant's Tale (Gr. K-8)

Picture Books and Read Alouds

🎥 Cantora Mercedes Sosa the Voice of Latin America

📖 Wanda Hears the Stars

🎥 Queen of Tejano Music: Selena

🎥 Digging for Words

📖 Planting Stories

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Disability History and Awareness Month (RCW 28A.230.158) takes place during October to increase awareness, respect, and acceptance for people with disabilities, and to bring a greater sense of pride to people with disabilities. All Washington public schools are required to conduct or promote educational activities that provide instruction, awareness, and understanding of disability history and people with disabilities. The activities may include, but not be limited to, school assemblies or guest speaker presentations.

Teaching & Learning Resources

Office of the Ed. Ombuds

🏫 One Out of Five: Disability History and Pride Project Lesson Plans and Resources

Association of Wa. School Principals

🏫 WA celebrates Disability History Month

Picture books & Read Alouds

Flap Your Hands

A Day with No Words

Remarkable Remy

My Brother Otto

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Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.

Teaching Resources:

Dolores Huerta Lesson Plans (K-12 + Teacher Guides)

Smithsonian Learning Lab | Hispanic Heritage Month Resources

Latino Poetry Blog: Blogging as a Forum for Open Discussion (Gr. 8-12)

Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote: A Migrant's Tale (Gr. K-8)

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Hispanic Heritage Month Instagram Post in Bright Orange Bright Yellow Bold Patterns Style (Facebook Cover)

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The Treaty of Paris – an agreement between Spain and the United States that ended the Spanish American War - led to the U.S. annexation of the Philippines. With the signing of the treaty, Cuba was also granted independence from Spain, while Puerto Rico and Guam were ceded to the US. Notably, the Philippines was purchased for $20 million. Source: Filipino American National Historical Society

Teaching & Learning Resources

Manilamen: The First Asian American Settlement (Gr. 4-8)

Smithsonian Magazine: Why It Is Important to Know the Story of Filipino-American Larry Itliong

Pajaro Valley Filipino American History Lesson Plans (Gr. 9-12)

Picture books and Read Alouds

🎥 Dancing the Tinikling

📖 Sari-sari Summers

🎥 Cora Cooks Pancit

📖 Maria Orosa

📖 Lapu Lapu

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October is dedicated to all LGBTQ+ history and heritage, which serves to remember and recognize the moments, the milestones, and the individuals who have led the movement for LGBT equality.

Missouri high school history teacher Rodney Wilson founded LGBT History Month in 1994. At the time of its founding, the month included important dates like National Coming Out Day on Oct. 11th and the anniversary of the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979 on Oct. 14th. The month now also includes Spirit Day – observed this year on Oct. 19th, during which people around the world wear or display the color purple in support of LGBT youth. October is also home to GLSEN’s Ally Week.

Teaching & Learning Resources

LGBTQ-visibility...in elementary schools

Ready, set, respect (Gr. K-5)

Trans Youth Support Graphics

Queer Justice (Gr. 6-12)

Picture Books and Read Alouds

📖 My Maddy

📖 Marley's Pride

📖 A song for Nolan

🎥 Real Siblings

📖 Far Far Away