September is a month full of international observances that can enhance communication and strengthen the values of Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Here are key events that can serve as a starting point for meaningful initiatives and activities to engage your employees.
World Suicide Prevention Day – September 10
World Suicide Prevention Day, initiated by the International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP) in collaboration with WHO, aims to raise awareness about suicide, which affects over 700,000 people globally each year. The theme for 2024-2026, “Creating Hope Through Action,” focuses on breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations about mental health. Consider organizing workshops, webinars, or discussion panels to create a supportive work environment where employees feel safe and encouraged to talk about the challenges they face.
Hashtags to use: #WSPD #WSPD2024 #StartTheConversation
International Equal Pay Day – September 18
International Equal Pay Day was established by the Equal Pay International Coalition (EPIC), led by the International Labour Organization (ILO), UN Women, and the OECD. This day highlights the global pay gap, where women still earn on average 20% less than men for the same work. Pay equity is crucial for achieving gender equality and social justice. Companies are encouraged to participate in actions that promote pay transparency and implement equality policies that can help reduce wage disparities.
Hashtags to use: #EqualPayDay
World Cleanup Day – September 20
World Cleanup Day is a global initiative organized by the Let’s Do It World movement, which has been officially added to the UN’s list of international observances this year. This day mobilizes tens of millions of volunteers worldwide to tackle environmental pollution. The goal is not only to clean up public spaces but also to promote long-term changes in waste management and raise environmental awareness. This year’s theme, “Make Room For Life,” encourages actions for environmental protection that can have a real, lasting impact. Organizing a company cleanup event or encouraging employees to participate in local initiatives is an excellent way to integrate the team and promote ecological responsibility.
Hashtags to use: #MakeRoomForLife #WorldCleanupDay2024
International Day of Sign Languages – September 23
The International Day of Sign Languages, established by the UN General Assembly in 2017 and supported by the World Federation of the Deaf, marks the beginning of International Week of the Deaf. September 23 aims to highlight the importance of sign languages in promoting inclusivity and protecting human rights. This year’s theme, “Sign up for Sign Language Rights,” emphasizes the need for the full implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by protecting the linguistic rights of deaf people. Organizing basic sign language training for employees and supporting initiatives for the deaf community are effective ways to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Hashtags to use: #IWDP #IDSL #IDSignLanguages #SignLanguagesDay
Summary
We hope that September’s inspirations from the DEI Calendar will serve as motivation for you. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to stay up to date with our latest posts.