together we can - kprschools.ca

Together We Can

Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Calendar

2017-2018

We Are One - Bowmanville High School

The Kawartha Pine Ridge Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Calendar 2017-2018

One of the many responsibilities of a school district is to ensure fair and

equitable treatment of all students and employees with diverse

backgrounds. The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPR)

believes in the power of education to change thinking, attitudes and

behaviours. The Board remains committed to identifying and eliminating

systemic barriers that limit the academic success and life chances of

students, as well as the career opportunities of employees. The Board’s

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee operates with a mandate to

promote and raise awareness of issues relating to equity, diversity and

inclusion.

For the thirteenth consecutive year, members of the Equity, Diversity and

Inclusion Committee challenged schools to create art commenting on

themes related to equity, diversity and inclusion. The theme for this

year’s calendar is Together We Can. To account for a variety of learning

needs and styles, school communities were encouraged to use diverse

media. Their goal was to portray ways in which students, staff and

community members can foster positive change that builds a more fair,

inclusive and equitable society.

The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Calendar represents a partnership

among students, staff, the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee,

Human Resource Services, Multimedia Services and the

Communications Office. It aims to serve as a resource for students, staff

and school communities. It celebrates the creativity of KPR students and

provides information about:

! Significant equity and diversity dates recognized by the United Nations,

Canada and Ontario! Bahá’í, Buddhist, Christian, Jewish, Hindu, Islamic and Sikh holy days

and feasts ! Dates of significance to communities within the KPR district (e.g., First

Nations and Métis) ! Canadian civic holidays ! Equinox, solstice and daylight savings dates ! The KPR Board Calendar.

An electronic version with accompanying resource suggestions is available

within the online Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Resource Library on the

Board’s website: www.kprschools.ca

Special thanks go to the many individuals who supported this project,

including:! Each student, educator, volunteer and staff member involved in creating

artwork! Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee members! Alderville, Curve Lake, and Hiawatha First Nations! Peterborough Pride Committee! Trent University, Department of Indigenous Studies! Staff and community organizations who suggested holy days, feasts and

days of significance! Steve Spracklin and Karen Owen, Designers in KPR Corporate Affairs

Living, learning and leading equitably and inclusively.

“Autism Awareness”Courtice North Public School

The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team supports the advancement of equity, diversity, inclusion and respect for the dignity of all persons within the KPR community. In collaboration with students, staff, trustees and community partners, the team supports student achievement through just and fair working and learning environments. Our team’s work is guided primarily by the principles and practices mandated under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Education Act, the Safe Schools Act, Ontario’s Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

In collaboration with other departments and programs, the Team:! Implements the Board’s equity-related policies and administrative regulations! Develops and ensures adherence to KPR’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan! Involves community partners in equity and diversity initiatives! Provides anti-discrimination education within the system! Develops capacity among staff and students to advance equity, value diversity, and create more inclusive and

respectful environments! Creates and disseminates resources that enhance understanding of, and across, diverse communities.

The Board has an advisory Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee that consists of representatives from all employee groups. The mandate of this committee is to address equity, diversity and inclusiveness in educational, human resources and business services of the Board, and to provide leadership and direction in the areas of equity, diversity and inclusion.

In 2016-2017, the Board undertook many equity-related actions to support safety and student achievement. These included:! Continuing the Board’s Creating Safe and Positive Spaces initiative to build safer and more accepting schools

and workplaces for students, staff and community members who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transsexual, two-spirit, or questioning (LGBTQ+), as well as for their allies, friends and families.

! Offering a staff development certificate program called Focusing Our Equity Lens; this partnership between the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team and the Leadership and Staff Development Department is modeled after the Harmony Movement’s Educator’s Equity Workshop.

! Providing ongoing training to staff, including new employees, supervisors and aspiring leaders.! Supporting individuals and families through KPR's Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Accommodation

Guidelines for Staff and Students.! Creating opportunities for student voice through the Social Changemakers Conference, Board-wide Gender

and Sexual Diversity Conference, Igniting Student Voice Workshops and a variety of guest speakers.! Supporting ongoing compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, including continued

implementation of KPR’s Multi-Year Accessibility Plan.! Continued support implementing the Ministry of Education’s Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy in all areas

of the Board.

Participation and involvement with community organizations are critical to the success of KPR’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team and programming initiatives. Strategic partnerships and involvement in 2015-2016 included:! Barrie Regional Equity and Inclusive Education Strategy Network of School Boards, Ministry of Education! EGALE Canada, Safer and Accepting Schools workshops supporting KPR’s Creating Safe and Positive Spaces

staff development initiative! The Harmony Movement Equity Leadership Training Program for students! Settlement Workers in Schools program partnership with the New Canadians Centre! Member of Rainbow Youth Coalition, Gender Journeys Advisory Group and the YWCA’s Week Without

Violence Committee.

In addition to these partnerships, we continue to be engaged with school boards, organizations, and community agencies and members within the Board area, provincially and nationally.

If you would like additional information about Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at KPR, please visit the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Resource Library at www.kprschools.ca.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at KPR

R.F. Downey Public School“Reaching Higher Together!”

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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International Literacy Day (UN)

Curve LakePow WowPeterborough Pride Week

Curve LakePow WowPeterborough Pride WeekTerry Fox Run

Peterborough Pride Week

Peterborough Pride WeekPowley DayNational Hunger Awareness Week (Can)

Navratri begins**Peterborough Pride Week

Navratri**Peterborough Pride Week ends

Labour DaySchools & Board Closed

Eid-al-Adha* **Eid-al-Adha* **

Navratri** Navratri** Navratri**

Navratri**Terry Fox National School Run Day

Navratri**Professional Activity Day

Navratri**Peterborough Pride Parade

Mabon/Harvestide*Navratri**Peterborough Pride WeekRosh Hashanah*Autumn Equinox

International Day of Peace (UN)

Al-Hijra*Navratri**Peterborough Pride Week

International Day of Democracy (UN)Start of Pride Week Peterborough

First Day of School

Eid-al-Adha* ** Eid-al-Adha* **

Leaves Turning Colour Moon – Waabbabagaa Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

Dussehra**Navratri ends**Orange Shirt DayYom Kippur*

September 2017

Index of Holy DaysLeaves Turning Colour Moon – Waabbabagaa Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of SeptemberAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – At this time of the year the leaves begin to change colour from green to yellow, orange, red and brown. The literal translation of this moon in Ojibwe is "the fading of the leaves."

Eid-al-Adha (Muslim)* - September 1-4Celebrates the end of the Hajj or the holy pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam, observed by Muslim communities.

Curve Lake Pow Wow (First Nations) - September 16 - 17A Pow Wow is a spiritual and social gathering. First Nations peoples come together to celebrate and honour traditions through drumming, singing and dancing. Visit www.curvelakefirstnation.ca for information.

Al-Hijra (Muslim)* - September 21The first of Muharram 1492, the Muslim New Year marks the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina.

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)* - September 21 - 22Rosh Hashanah celebrates New Year as harvest ends. It is a time for reflection and self-assessment for the community and for individuals, as well as a time for promoting universal peace and well-being.

Navratri (Hindu)** - September 20 - 30A festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil, Navratri honours God as a mother figure - an element that is unique from many other religions. Women traditionally plant nine different seeds at this time, in honour of the goddess Durga.

Mabon/Harvestide (Wiccan)* - September 22Mabon falls on the Autumn Equinox and marks the middle of harvest. It is a time of equal day and equal night when nature is in balance. During this time, thanks are given to the earth for its bounty.

Dussehra (Hindu)** - September 30Dussehra continues from Navratri festivities to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. It honours the Goddess Durga.

Yom Kippur (Jewish)* - September 30Day of Atonement is the year’s holiest day and a day of fasting to re-establish oneness with God.

Significant DatesPowley Day - September 19Celebrates the Supreme Court decision in R. v. Powley, which granted Métis Harvesting Rights, especially important at this time of year.

International Day of Peace (UN) - September 21This day is dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.

* Holy Days beginning at sundown the day before**This date may vary based on moon sightings, local or regional customs

For more information and resources related to these dates, please refer to the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Resource Library available at www.kprschools.ca.

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Elementary School Days

Otonabee Valley Public School“Our Lightbulb Moment”


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29 30 31

International Day of Non-Violence (UN)

World Habitat Day (UN)

Simchat Torah*

World Food Day (UN)

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (UN) Persons' Day (Can) Diwali** Birth of the Báb*

United Nations Day (UN)

Professional Activity Day (Secondary only)

October is...

Autism Awareness Month (Can)Canadian Library MonthIslamic History Month (Can)Learning Disabilities Awareness MonthWomen's History Month (Can)

Index of Holy DaysThe Falling Leaves Moon – BinaaKawii Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of OctoberAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – This is the month when the leaves fall to the ground, preparing Mother Earth for the coming months of winter. For more information on local Full Moon Ceremonies go to www.facebook.com/groups/16994197269 or contact Trent University Department of Indigenous Studies.

Simchat Torah (Jewish)* - October 13Simchat Torah marks the end of Sukkot, a joyous occasion concluding with the synagogue reading of the Torah (Pentateuch).

Diwali (Hindu)** - October 19This festival of lights features lanterns, flowers, electric lights and oil lamps called Adiyas. Gifts are also exchanged.

Birth of the Báb (Bahá'í)* - October 20 Observes the birth of the Báb, one of two founders of Bahá`í and Proclaimer of the faith.

Significant DatesPersons’ Day (Canada) - October 18 Commemorates the date in 1929 when England’s Privy Council decided that women were indeed persons and therefore entitled to all the rights of persons under the law. This reversed the 1927 decision by Canada’s Supreme Court that the word “person” did not include women. It also created the opportunity for women to be appointed to the Canadian Senate.

Hallowe’en - October 31 Stems from Celtic origins and marks a time when people believed spirits of the dead crossed over into the world of the living for one night. Many people wear costumes and children visit homes in their neighbourhoods to receive candy.



Hallowe'en

Thanksgiving DaySchools & Board Closed

German Pioneers Day (ON)

World Teachers' Day (UN)

The Falling Leaves Moon - BinaaKawii Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

October 2017

September 2017S M T W T F S

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November 2017S M T W T F S

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Northumberland CIS“Dream Catcher of Memories”


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Birthday of Guru Nanak

Treaties Recognition Week


Treaties Recognition Week EndsRemembrance Day (Can)

World Diabetes Day (WHO)

Louis Riel Day (ON)International Day of Tolerance (UN)

International Students' Day

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week begins (ON)

Bullying Awareness and Prevention WeekTransgender Day of Remembrance

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week



Bullying Awareness and Prevention WeekMartyrdom of Guru Tegh BahadurProfessional Activity Day

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week ends (ON) International Day of Elimination of Violence Against Women (UN)White Ribbon Campaign begins

Day of the Covenant*

November is...Indigenous Peoples Awareness Month

Index of Holy Days

Freezing Moon – Baashkaakodin Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of NovemberAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – The weather is getting colder and the ground begins to freeze, soon the snow will come to cover the ground for another winter.

Samhain (Wiccan)* - November 1Samhain literally means “summer’s end” and marks the end of harvest and beginning of winter. It is considered to be one of the most powerful times of the year when the veil between the spirit world and the world of the living is at its thinnest. Samhain is a time to honour ancestors, mourn those who have died in the last year, and reconnect and make contact with the dead.

Birthday of Guru Nanak (Sikh) - November 4Born in the 1400s, Guru Nanak was the founder of Sikhism.

Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur (Sikh) - November 24 (Nanakshahi)Bahadur became a martyr and hero in 1675 when he was beheaded for refusing Islam at a time when it was being enforced.

Day of the Covenant* (Bahá'í) - November 26 Commemorates Bahá'u'lláh’s promise about the work that his son and successor, Abdu'l-Bahá, would do in the name of the Bahá'í faith.

Ascension of Abdu'l-Bahá (Bahá'í) - November 28Abdu'l-Bahá was Bahá'u'lláh's eldest son and successor, and was famed for his 1911-1913 teachings in Europe and America, which spread the Bahá'í message to the western world.

Significant Dates

Remembrance Day (Can) - November 11A national day of observance to honour the lives of the many people who served Canada in times of war, military conflict and peace. It is important to recognize the diversity of Canada's veterans, and the contributions and sacrifices made by all Canadians who served, including men, women, immigrants, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people.

Transgender Day of Remembrance - November 20 The Transgender Day of Remembrance memorializes those who have been murdered because of transphobia, anti-transgender hatred or prejudice. This day is also an opportunity to raise public awareness of hate crimes against transgender people and to acknowledge one of the most prevalent causes for bullying: gender identity and expression.



Ascension of Abdu'l-Bahá

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People (UN)

Treaties Recognition Week BeginsDaylight Savings Time ends




Samhain*

Freezing Moon – Baashkaakodin Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

November 2017October 2017

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December 2017S M T W T F S

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Dr. G. J. MacGillivray Public School“In Diversity There is Beauty and There is Strength”


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International Volunteer Day (UN)

Hanukkah* Hanukkah* Hanukkah*

Hanukkah*

International Migrants' Day (UN)Hanukkah* Hanukkah*

International Human Solidarity Day (UN)Hanukkah*

Winter SolsticeYule

Christmas Day (Christian)Schools & Board Closed

KwanzaaBoxing Day (Can)Schools & Board Closed

KwanzaaSchools & Board Closed




KwanzaaNew Year’s Eve

Index of Holy Days

Little Spirit Moon – Mnidoo Giiz’soons (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of DecemberAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – As December isn't always too blustery and stormy just yet, that type of weather is attributed to the work of the "Little Spirit."

Mawlid al-Nabi (Muslim)* ** - December 1A quiet festival marking Muhammad’s birth and death.

Bodhi Day (Buddhist) - December 8Date of Siddhartha Gautama’s realization and presentation to fellow seekers of the Four Noble Truths.

Hanukkah (Jewish)* - December 13 - 20The Jewish “Festival of Lights” celebrated for eight days to commemorate the victory of the Maccabees over Hellenistic Greeks in the 2nd century before the Common Era, and to celebrate the power of God and the faithfulness of Israel.

Yule (Wiccan) - December 21A time to hold vigil together through the longest night of the year and at the dawn welcome the turning of the wheel and the return of the light. It is a time for ritually shedding the impurities of the past year and for contemplating avenues of spiritual development in the year ahead.

Christmas (Christian) - December 25Honours the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe is the Son of God.

Kwanzaa (African-Canadian and American) - December 26 - January 1A holiday based on the African tradition of celebrating the harvesting of the first fruits (Kwanzaa means “first”). Kwanzaa was recreated and introduced in the U.S. by California college professor Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. The celebration has now spread worldwide; Kwanzaa is celebrated by millions of people in Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and North America.

Significant Dates

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (UN) - December 3This day promotes awareness and mobilizes support for critical issues related to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (Can) - December 6On December 6, 1989, 14 women at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal were killed in a gender-based act of violence. In 1991, the Parliament of Canada declared December 6 to be the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The day now represents a time to reflect on the phenomenon of violence against women-identified people in our society and to speak out against all forms of violence against women and girls.

International Human Rights Day (UN) - December 10This day is meant to build awareness of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as the common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations.



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Little Spirit Moon – Mnidoo Giiz’soons (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

International Human Rights Day (UN) Hanukkah*

Bodhi Day

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (UN)

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (Can)White Ribbon Campaign ends (Can)

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery (UN)

Mawlid al-Nabi* **World AIDS Day (UN)

December 2017

November 2017S M T W T F S

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January 2018S M T W T F S

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Crestwood Secondary School“Together We Can Overcome Fear”


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KwanzaaNew Year’s DaySchools & Board Closed Epiphany

Makar SankrantiMartin Luther King Jr. Day

World Religion Day* Secondary Exams

Family Literacy Day (Can)International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust (UN)

January is ...Tamil Heritage Month (ON)

Index of Holy Days

Spirit Moon – Mnidoo Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of JanuaryAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – This month is usually cold with many unpredictable storms, as if some unseen force was at work; the howling wind and the snapping of the twigs from the frost add to the idea of a "Spirit" at work.

Mahayana New Year (Buddhist)** - January 2 - 4While Buddhists all over the world celebrate the New Year at different times, Mahayana Buddhists observe it with special rituals, prayers, songs, food and gatherings on the first full moon day in January.

Birthday of Guru Gobind Singh (Sikh) - January 5Guru Gobind Singh instituted the five items of faith worn by Sikhs - Kesh, Kanga, Kara, Kaccha, Kirpan - and established the Order of the Khalsa.

Epiphany (Christian) - January 6Originates from a Greek word meaning “to show” and signifies the time when Jesus was revealed to the world.

Christmas (Orthodox) - January 7See December Index.

Makar Sankranti (Hindu) - January 14Makar Sankranti observes the first Hindu festival of the solar calendar year.

World Religion Day (Bahá’i/Multifaith)* - January 21World Religion Day was instituted by the Bahá’i community in 1950 to help foster interfaith understanding and harmony. Occurs on the third Sunday of January.

Significant Dates

World Braille Day - January 4World Braille Day recognizes the contributions of Louis Braille, creator of the braille code, and brings awareness about the challenges faced by individuals who are visually impaired.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day - January 15 This day celebrates the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr., for his role as a civil rights leader in the fight for racial equality.



Secondary Exams Secondary Exams Secondary Exams

Christmas Day (Orthodox) Schools Re-open

World Braille DayMahayana New Year**Schools Closed

Birthday of Guru Gobind SinghSchools Closed

Mahayana New Year**Schools Closed

Spirit Moon – Mnidoo Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

Mahayana New Year**Schools Closed

January 2018

December 2017S M T W T F S

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February 2018S M T W T F S

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Armour Heights Public School“Upstream”


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International Development Week ends

Maha ShivaratriShrove Tuesday

Ash WednesdayLent beginsValentine's Day

National Flag Day of Canada (CAN)Paranirvana/Nirvana Day**

LosarLunar New Year

World Day of Social Justice (UN)

February is ...

Black History Month (Can)Chinese Heritage MonthNational Inclusive Education Month (Can)

Index of Holy DaysBear Moon – Mkwa Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of FebruaryAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – Towards the end of this month, many of the animals that hibernate begin to stir and come out of hibernation. The bear is said to be the one that sleeps the longest.

Maha Shivaratri (Hindu) - February 13Celebrates Shiva, one of the deities of the Hindu Trinity.

Shrove Tuesday (Christian) - February 13Marks a day of penitence, cleansing the soul and celebration before the Lent fast begins.

Lent (Christian) - February 14Lent is the season of penance and prayer before Easter. It is a time when Christians remember the 40 days and nights Jesus spent alone in the desert without food.

Paranirvana/Nirvana Day (Buddhist)** - February 15This festival marks the Buddha's death, enlightenment and freedom from physical existence. The day is marked by special readings, meditations about loss, impermanence, and the newly deceased, visiting temples or monasteries, and exchanging food, money, household items and clothes. It is celebrated by some on February 8.

Losar (Buddhist) - February 16Tibetan New Year lasts for three days. People visit monasteries, make offerings, and put purification at the forefront of their appearance, feasts, and rituals to drive away evil spirits.

Lunar New Year - February 16Lunar New Year is celebrated among Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean populations, as well as among followers of Buddhism.

Significant DatesValentine’s Day - February 14 People pronounce or reaffirm their love for someone, often by sending cards or giving gifts.

Anti-Bullying Day (Can) - February 28The last Wednesday of February is known as Anti-Bullying Day in Canada. It's also known as "Pink Shirt Day." It originated as a protest against a homophobic bullying incident at a Nova Scotia high school (Central Kings Rural High School). On this day participants are asked to wear pink to symbolize a stand against bullying. Many also recognize the Day of Pink in April in a similar way.



International Development Week begins

Secondary Exams

Groundhog DaySecondary ExamsProfessional Activity Day

Bear Moon – Mkwa Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

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February 2018

Family Day (ON)Schools & Board Closed

Anti-Bullying Day/Pink Shirt Day (Can)

International Mother Language Day (UN)

January 2018S M T W T F S

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March 2018S M T W T F S

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Keith Wightman Public School“Help Me Become We”


National Aboriginal Language Day (Can)

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

International Women's Day (UN)

March Break beginsAll Schools Closed

Daylight Savings Time begins

March BreakAll Schools Closed




March Break endsAll Schools Closed

Journee de la Francophonie (Can)Naw-Rúz*Ostara*Spring Equinox

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (UN)Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism & Racial Discrimination beginsWorld Down Syndrome Day (UN)

World Water Day (UN) Earth Hour

International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (UN)Palm SundayRama Navami

March is ...Hellenic Heritage Month (ON)

Index of Holy Days

Snow Crust Moon – Naabdin Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of MarchAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – March is often a time of snow, sleet and freezing rain forming a slippery crust of ice on top of the snow. This month is known as the time when you can walk on top of the snow.

Purim (Jewish)* - March 1Purim commemorates the salvation of the Jewish community, described in the Biblical Book of Esther.

Holi (Hindu)** - March 2Honours creation and renewal as a spring festival associated with Krishna.

Naw-Rúz (Bahá'í)* - March 20The Persian new year celebrates unity, joy and hospitality with a feast of seven items beginning with the letter “s” (in Farsi). A great deal of time is spent with a gift exchange and attending social gatherings.

Rama Navami (Hindu) - March 25Recognizes the Birth of Lord Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu and the hero of the Ramayana.

Palm Sunday (Christian) - March 25Marks the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and the start of the Holy Week.

Good Friday/Holy Friday (Christian/Orthodox) - March 30Good Friday/Holy Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Significant DatesInternational Women’s Day - March 8International Women’s Day is a worldwide celebration of women, peace and human rights. Typically occurring during International Women’s Week, this is a time for all people to reflect on the impacts of violence against women and girls and to commit to helping end it.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination - March 21As a response to the massacre in Sharpeville, South Africa in 1960, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination calls on citizens to take action to eliminate racial discrimination, and build more inclusive and accepting communities.

Earth Hour (Global) - March 24 (8:30 - 9:30 pm)A global event asking households and businesses to conserve energy by turning off non-essential lights and electrical appliances for one hour. This hour raises awareness of the need to take action on climate change.



Week of Solidarity with the Peoples Struggling against Racism & Racial Discrimination ends

Good Friday/Holy Friday (Christian/Orthodox)Schools and Board Closed

Purim* Holi**

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Snow Crust Moon – Naabdin Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

March 2018

St. Patrick’s Day

February 2018S M T W T F S

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April 2018S M T W T F S

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Central Public School“The Family Tree”


Easter (Christian)Passover*

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International Children’s Book Day

Schools & Board Closed

World Autism Awareness Day (UN)Passover*Easter Monday ( )Christian

Passover*

World Health Day (UN)Passover*

Yom HaShoah/ Holocaust Remembrance Day* Vaisakhi**

National Volunteer Week begins Equality Day (Can)

Professional Activity Day

First day of Ridván*National Volunteer Week Ends

Earth Day (Can)

National Volunteer Week endsRidván*

Canada Book DayRidván* Ridván* Ridván* Ridván* Ridván*

National Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured at Work (Can)Ridván*

Ninth day of Ridván*

April is ...

Earth Month (Can)Genocide Awareness and Prevention Month (Can)Sikh Heritage Month (ON)

Index of Holy DaysMaple Sugar Moon – Ziisbaakdoke Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of AprilAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – The month of April is an active time for those who tap the Maple trees for their sap and turn it into Maple syrup and sugar. It is known as the sugaring moon.

Easter (Christian) - April 1The most important Christian Festival. Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Passover (Jewish)* - April 1 - 7The start of the season of Passover commemorates the liberation of the Children of Israel who were led out of Egypt by Moses.

Yom HaShoah/Holocaust Remembrance Day(Jewish)* - April 12Yom HaShoah remembers the Holocaust and the six million Jewish people who perished. Anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto uprising.

Vaisakhi (Sikh)** - April 14Vaisakhi honours the Sikh New Year and the year that Sikhism became a collective faith with processions and hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh holy book. It is also spelled Baisakhi.

Ridván* (Bahá'í) - April 21- May 2Ridván celebrates Bahá’u’lláh’s time in the garden of Ridván and his announcement that he was the prophet promised by the Báb. The most important Bahá’i festival.

Theravada New Year (Buddhist) - April 30The New Year takes place on the first full moon in April for Theravada Buddhists. Themes of reflecting on one's karma, of purifying oneself, and of hospitality are prevalent.

Significant DatesInternational Day of Pink (Can) - April 11A day to celebrate diversity and raise awareness to stop homophobic, transphobic and all forms of bullying and discrimination. See also “Anti-Bullying Day” in February.

Equality Day (Can) - April 17On Equality Day Canadians everywhere can celebrate the inclusion of Sections 15 and 28 in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which forms part of the Canadian Constitution.

Earth Day (Can) - April 22This is a day designed to inspire awareness of, and appreciation for, the Earth’s environment.



Theravada New Year**Ridván*

InternationalDay of Pink (Can)

Passover* Passover*

Refugee Rights Day (Can)Passover*

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Maple Sugar Moon – Ziisbaakdoke Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

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Dr. M.S. Hawkins Senior Public School“Community Circles”


Ramadan* **

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Beltane*Ridván*

South Asian Arrival Day (ON)

Ascension DayEducation Week ends Canada Health Day

Mental Health Week Ends

International Day of Families (UN) Ramadan begins* **

International Day Against Homophobia and TransphobiaRamadan* **

Hiawatha Pow WowRamadan* **

Hiawatha Pow WowPentecost (Christian)Shavuot*Ramadan* **

Shavuot*World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development (UN)

Ramadan* **

Victoria Day (Can)Schools & Board Closed

Aboriginal Awareness Week beginsInternational Day for Biological Diversity (UN)Ramadan* **

Aboriginal Awareness Week Declaration of the Báb*Ramadan* **

Aboriginal Awareness Week Ramadan* **

Aboriginal Awareness Week endsAfrica DayRamadan* ** Ramadan* **

Ramadan* **

May is...Asian Heritage Month (ON)Dutch Heritage Month (ON)Jewish Heritage Month (ON)

Index of Holy DaysSucker Moon – Nmebine Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of MayAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – During the month of May the suckers used to run; they were so plentiful in the lakes, streams and creeks that they could be caught by hand easily.

Ridván (Bahá'í) - April 21 - May 2See April Index.

Beltane (Wiccan)* - May 1An ancient gaelic celebration marking the beginning of summer and the fertility of the coming year.

Ascension Day (Christian/Orthodox) - May 10Christians believe Christ ascended into heaven. Celebrated 40 days after Easter, Ascension marks the last earthly appearance of Christ after His resurrection.

Ramadan (Muslim)* ** - May 16 - June 14Ramadan is a period of self-purification and betterment. For one month, Muslims fast daily, from dawn until sunset. Gaining self-control and contributing to charity are central features.

Hiawatha Pow Wow (First Nations) - May 19 - 20A Pow Wow is a spiritual and social gathering. First Nations peoples come together to celebrate and honour traditions through drumming, singing and dancing. Visit www.hiawathafirstnation.com for more information.

Pentecost (Christian) - May 20Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples and the birth of the Christian Church.

Shavuot (Jewish)* - May 20 - 21Marks the time when the first harvest was taken to the Temple. Also known as the Festival of Weeks.

Declaration of the Báb (Bahá'í)* - May 23Starting two hours after sunset on the 22nd, the event celebrates the Báb's official declaration of his mission to prepare the world for God's messenger, Bahá'u'lláh.

Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh* (Bahá'í) - May 29Marks the ascension of Bahá’u’lláh, second founder of Bahá’i.

Visakha Puja/Buddha Day** (Buddhist) - May 29The most important Buddhist Festival, Vesak celebrates the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death among Theravada Buddhists.

Significant DatesInternational Family Equality Day - May 6Celebrated annually on the first Sunday in May, International Family Equality Day is a day to recognize the many LGBTQ people raising families today and to increase international visibility.

International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia - May 17Also known as Anti-Homophobia Day, this day offers an opportunity for people to get together and reach out to one another in an effort to end homophobia and hatred.

Aboriginal Awareness Week - May 22 - 25Aboriginal Awareness Week was designed to increase awareness of the Aboriginal peoples within Canada and the Public Service. It is a week to honour the many indigenous cultures in Canada, including the Métis, Inuit and First Nations.


a

Ramadan* **

Ascension of Bahá'u'lláh*International Day of UN Peacekeepers (UN)Visakha Puja/Buddha Day**Ramadan* ** Ramadan* **

International Family Equality Day

Education Week beginsMental Health Week (CAN) Begins

World Press Freedom Day (UN)

Twelfth day of Ridván

Sucker Moon – Nmebine Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

Ramadan* **

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Queen Mary Public School“Together We Can”

Ramadan* **


Secondary Exams

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Ramadan* **

Ramadan* **

Ramadan* **World Oceans’ Day (UN)Professional Activity Day (Elementary Only) Ramadan* **

Portugal Day (Can)

Ramadan* **

Canadian Environment Week (Can) ends Laylat al-Qadr* **

Ramadan* **

Ramadan* **World Day Against Child Labour (UN) Ramadan* ** Ramadan* ** ends Eid al-Fitr* **

Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (UN) Juneteenth

World Refugee Day (UN)

National Aboriginal Day (Can)

Litha*Summer Solstice

Public Service Day (UN)

St-Jean-Baptiste Day (QC)

June is...

Italian Heritage Month (ON)National Aboriginal History Month (Can)Portuguese History & Heritage Month (Can)Pride Month (Can)Seniors’ Month (ON)

Index of Holy Days

Blooming Moon – Waabgonii Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of JuneAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – This is the time of the year that everything starts to bloom, including the buds on the trees, flowers and other plants.

Ramadan (Muslim)* ** - May 16 - June 14See May Index.

Laylat al-Qadr (Muslim)* ** - June 11Also known as the Night of Power, it marks the night on which the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah.

Eid al-Fitr (Muslim)* ** - June 15Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. The Festival of Breaking the Fast is a time of great celebration.

Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev (Sikh) - June 16Guru Arjan was the fifth Sikh Guru and the first Sikh martyr. He compiled all the past Gurus’ writings into one book, now the Sikh holy scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib.

Litha (Wiccan)* - June 21Litha, the summer solstice Sabbat, honours the longest day of the year. It is the time of year when the crops are bountiful and the earth is warm, and a focus is placed on celebrating the power of the sun.

Significant Dates

Juneteenth - June 19Juneteenth is the celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the U.S. on June 19, 1865.

National Aboriginal Day (Can) - June 21Celebrates Inuit, Métis, and First Nations’ cultures and heritage. Coincides with the summer solstice as a time to reflect on future growth.

St-Jean-Baptiste Day (QC) - June 24 The patron saint of French Canada and the distinct nature of French Canadian culture are celebrated with lively parades and parties.



Secondary Exams Secondary Exams

Multiculturalism Day (Can)Secondary Exams

Last Instructional DaySecondary Exams

Professional Activity Day

Canadian Environment Week (Can) beginsInternational Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression (UN)Ramadan* **

Ramadan* **World Environment Day (UN) Ramadan* **

Ramadan* **

Blooming Moon – Waabgonii Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

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Roseneath Centennial Public School“Build Together, Breath Easier”


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Alderville Pow Wow

Nelson Mandela International Day (UN)

Dharma Day

Index of Holy Days

Berry Moon – Miin Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of JulyAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – This month signifies the time when so many berries are ripe and ready for picking. Blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are especially plentiful.

Alderville Pow Wow (First Nations) - July 7 - 8A Pow Wow is a spiritual and social gathering. First Nations peoples come together to celebrate and honour traditions through drumming, singing and dancing. Visit www.aldervillefirstnation.ca for more information.

Martyrdom of the Báb (Bahá'í )* - July 9This day honours the anniversary of the Báb’s execution in 1850.

Dharma Day (Buddhist) - July 28Dharma Day marks the beginning of the Buddha's teaching and enlightenment. Dharma day is observed as the start of the Buddhist religion. A day of gratitude towards the Buddha and other enlightened teachers, the festival is celebrated with reflection and readings from Buddhist scriptures.

Significant Dates

Canada Day (Can) - July 1Marks the anniversary of the formation of the union of the provinces in a federation. It is celebrated across the country.

Nelson Mandela International Day (UN) - July 18Held annually to recognize Mandela’s contribution to peace and freedom, this day represents a global call to action for people to recognize their ability to have a positive effect on others around them, and to embrace values such as: democracy, freedom, equality, diversity, reconciliation and respect.



International Day of Friendship (UN)

Alderville Pow WowMartyrdom of the Báb*

World Population Day (UN)

Berry Moon – Miin Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

July 2018

Canada Day

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Norwood District Public School“Collaborative HeARTs”


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International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (UN)

Index of Holy Days

Grain Moon – Mnoomni Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of AugustAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – It is at this time of the year that the harvesting of grains is taking place. Grains, hay and even vegetables were prepared and put away for the winter months. For more information on local Full Moon Ceremonies go to www.facebook.com/groups/16994197269 or contact Trent University Department of Indigenous Studies.

Eid-al-Adha (Muslim)* ** - August 22 - 25Celebrates the end of the Hajj or the holy pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam, observed by Muslim communities.

Significant Dates

Hiroshima Day - August 6On August 6, 1944, the first atomic bomb was dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. Today, people recognize this event with special vigils and marches for peace.

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples (UN) - August 9This day marks the eleventh anniversary of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

World Humanitarian Day (UN) - August 19This day is meant to recognize aid workers who risk their lives in humanitarian service, and to those who provide support for people affected by crises around the world.



Hiroshima DayCivic Day (ON)

Grain Moon – Mnoomni Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

International Youth Day (UN)

World Humanitarian Day (UN) Eid-al-Adha* ** Eid-al-Adha* ** Eid-al-Adha* ** Eid-al-Adha* **

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Bowmanville High School“We are One”


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Labour DayKrishna Jayanti/Janmashtami**Labour DaySchools & Board Closed First Day of School

Curve LakePow WowInternational Day of Democracy (UN)

Mabon/Harvestide*Autumn Equinox

Terry Fox Run

Rosh Hashanah* Ganesh Chaturthi

Curve LakePow Wow

International Day of Peace (UN)

Rosh Hashanah*

International Literacy Day (UN)

Leaves Turning Colour Moon – Waabbabagaa Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations)

September 2018

Index of Holy Days

Leaves Turning Colour Moon – Waabbabagaa Giizis (Anishinaabe - First Nations) Month of SeptemberAnishinaabe Moon Calendar – At this time of the year the leaves begin to change colour from green to yellow, orange, red and brown. The literal translation of this moon in Ojibway is "the fading of the leaves.”

Krishna Jayanti/Janmashtami (Hindu)** - September 3This festival marks the birth of Krishna, the most venerated God in Hinduism.

Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)* - September 10 - 11Rosh Hashanah celebrates New Year as harvest ends. It is a time for reflection and self-assessment for the community and for individuals, as well as a time for promoting universal peace and well-being.

Ganesh Chaturthi (Hindu) - September 12This is a celebration of the birth of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed God known as the Remover of Obstacles.

Curve Lake Pow Wow (First Nations) - September 15 - 16A Pow Wow is a spiritual and social gathering. First Nations peoples come together to celebrate and honour traditions through drumming, singing and dancing. Visit www.curvelakefirstnation.ca for information.

Mabon/Harvestide (Wiccan)* - September 22Mabon falls on the Autumn Equinox and marks the middle of harvest. It is a time of equal day and equal night when nature is in balance. During this time, thanks are given to the earth for its bounty.

Significant Dates

International Day of Peace (UN) - September 21This day is dedicated to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples.




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Calendars are common to all cultures. Often based on astronomical events, calendars reflect the different ways that time is conceived and distributed into discrete periods – seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, seasons and years.

Religious holidays are the primary events in most cultures. Their timing is usually determined by the movements of the sun or the moon. As a result, different faith traditions rely on lunar, solar, luni-solar or scientifically-formulated calendars to establish holy days from year to year. Scientifically-formulated calendars can be prepared years in advance. Lunar calendars, however, cannot. For this reason, faith cultures relying on the lunar calendar can determine their religious dates only months in advance. Lunar calendars are based on the moon’s movement as reflected in its visibility from the earth. Composed of twelve months of 29 or 30 days, the lunar year has 354 days (355 during a leap year). Islamic, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist calendars traditionally have followed the lunar mode.

Solar calendars are based on the earth’s revolution around the sun. The duration of a tropical year changes annually. It marks the average time from one fixed point, such as the vernal (spring) equinox, to its return. The Persian, Julian, Mayan and ancient Egyptian calendars are solar.

Luni-solar calendars incorporate both the lunar phases and the earth’s relationship to the sun. These calendars sequence months based on the moon’s phases and add a full month every few years to keep step with the tropical year. The Jewish and Chinese calendars use this system.

As time passed, many cultures and the Christian church, in particular, sought a calendar method that would allow people to know well in advance when a feast or holy day would fall. To remedy the variation that resulted annually and over time with the solar calendar, scientifically-manipulated calendars were developed. Based on a mathematical formula that often involved the addition of days to the tropical year over time, such calendars provided long-range planning and predictability of dates. The Gregorian calendar is an example of this method of managing time. It replaced the Julian calendar in the sixteenth century and is recognized worldwide. In some instances, there have been efforts to dedicate holy days to specific dates on the Gregorian calendar, to ensure greater consistency in observances. Though not a replacement for other calendars, it has become an international tool. The KPR Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Calendar follows the Gregorian calendar and incorporates dates from the calendars of world cultures and religions.

Every effort has been made to integrate the various methods of tracking time with respect to the diverse faith traditions reflected in Canadian society. Some dates, as you will see, are approximations based on projections from different calendars. Most dates noted for each faith group reflect the “commonly-held” traditions of each community. Because belief systems vary, all holy days within all faith traditions have not been incorporated in this effort. In addition to drawing information from reputable resources, when uncertain about particular holy dates, KPR also consulted with individual groups. Editorial decisions were made with a view to achieving our objective of developing a learning resource that would help people within the KPR community to better understand diversity in the world.

The online version of this calendar, along with additional resources, are located within the Equity, Diversity Resource Library at www.kprschools.caand Inclusion For further information, please contact KPR’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Program Officer at [email protected] or 1-877-741-4577, ext. 2157.

Calendars: History & Origin

together we can - kprschools.ca

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