International days and initiatives offer a fantastic opportunity to educate both employees and the broader society about critical environmental and social issues. Raising awareness inspires action towards solving global challenges and celebrating existing achievements. Aligning your DEI calendar with your organization’s values not only reinforces its identity but also encourages employees to engage with the company’s objectives. Here are some opportunities for July.
World Youth Skills Day – July 15
Established by the United Nations in 2014, World Youth Skills Day on July 15th highlights the importance of providing young people with essential job skills and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit. This year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” focuses on the critical role of skill development in youth for promoting peace and resolving conflicts. This presents a perfect opportunity to showcase internal initiatives aimed at enhancing young people’s skills. For more information, visit the UN website.
Hashtags to use: #wysd #WorldYouthSkillsDay
International Chess Day – July 20
International Chess Day was proposed by UNESCO and first celebrated in 1966 thanks to FIDE. Officially recognized by the UN in 2019, International Chess Day on July 20th is dedicated to a game that merges sport, science, and art. Chess is universally accessible, transcending age, gender, or social status, and promotes global tolerance and understanding by fostering fairness and respect. Organizing a chess tournament could be an excellent team-building activity that highlights values such as patience, equality, and fair play. For more details, visit the UN website.
Hashtag to use: #ChessDay
International Day of Friendship – July 30
Proposed by the World Friendship Crusade in 1958 and established by the UN in 2011, the International Day of Friendship on July 30th promotes the idea that friendships across nations, cultures, and individuals can inspire peace and build community bridges. For more details, visit the UN website. This day is perfect for engaging in social activities that promote understanding and respect. Sharing personal stories from employees or organizing activities that strengthen team bonds are great ways to celebrate this day.
Hashtag to use: #InternationalFriendshipDay
Wrapping Up
We hope this edition of our DEI Calendar has inspired you. Follow our profile on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to keep up with our future posts.