10.07.21 – October Recognitions

Thursday, October 7, 2021

October Recognitions

October offers many opportunities to recognize diversity throughout APFA and the communities in which we reside.

October 11th is Indigenous People’s Day (Native American Day), celebrating and honoring Native American history and culture.  This day is also known as Columbus Day. Some states and cities in the U.S. have officially changed the day to Indigenous People’s Day to bring greater awareness of the atrocities of genocide against Indigenous Native Americans. The day is celebrated in Spanish-speaking countries and communities as Día de la Raza, or “Day of the Race.”

October 11th is also Coming Out Day, encouraging lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender honesty and openness. The day commemorates October 11th, 1987, when 500,000 people marched on Washington, DC, for gay and lesbian equality.

October is LGBT History Month, National Disability (Different Abilities) Employment Awareness Month, and National Bullying Prevention Month.

LGBT History Month acknowledges and celebrates the lives and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender people in our communities and the importance of civil rights movements in progressing gay rights. It is the anniversary of the first march for gay rights in Washington on October 14th, 1979.

For over 70 years, National Disability (Different Abilities) Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) has celebrated the diversity of different abilities, recognizes the contributions of workers with disabilities, and brings greater awareness of differences as strengths to value and respect.

National Bullying Prevention Month raises awareness of bullying prevention and the issue of bullying, marginalizing, and degradation, which comes in many forms. In all situations, whether face-to-face, written, social media, or any other online platforms (cyberbullying), it is unacceptable, as it can be excruciating to deal with the hurt and pain it inflicts on those targeted. The damage done has lasting effects.

Focusing on celebrating our differences moves us toward greater respect and inclusion. We appreciate all you do to bring kindness and understanding each day to the line and your community.

In Solidarity,

Teddy, Chaddrian, Rhonda and Charlotte
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee Chairperson and Co-Chairs
[email protected]