To recognize the diversity of cultures and expressions represented at TGen, we’d like to highlight several holidays and observances throughout the month of April.
National Minority Cancer & Health Awareness Month
National Minority Cancer & Health Awareness Month is observed to highlight the disparities in cancer incidence and health outcomes among minority populations. It aims to raise awareness, promote early detection, and encourage preventive health practices to improve cancer care and health equity across diverse communities.
National Deaf History Month
National Deaf History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of deaf and hard of hearing individuals to society. It highlights key events in deaf history, including the establishment of the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States, the development of American Sign Language, and significant advances in rights and recognition for the deaf community. This month aims to raise awareness about deaf culture, heritage, and language, promoting inclusivity and understanding. Take some time and learn, or practice, ASL.
Autism Awareness Day - Tuesday, April 2
Autism Awareness Day 2024 aims to raise awareness about autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and promote understanding and acceptance of those living with autism. This day encourages support for individuals with autism and their families, highlighting the need for increased research, resources, and advocacy to improve their quality of life and ensure their full participation in society.
Laylat al-Qadr (Muslim) - Friday, April 5
Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree, is a highly revered night in Islam, believed to fall in the last ten days of Ramadan. It commemorates the Quran's revelation to Prophet Muhammad, offering a time for prayer, reflection, and seeking forgiveness. Worship on this night is considered immensely rewarding, symbolizing deep spiritual renewal in the Islamic faith.
World Health Day - Sunday, April 7
Established by the WHO in 1948 and first marked in 1950, World Health Day emphasizes critical health issues and the promotion of healthy practices globally on April 7 each year. It focuses on a unique health theme annually to highlight and address key health challenges, fostering better health and wellbeing worldwide. This year's theme, "My health, my right," advocates for universal access to health services, education, information, and essentials like safe water, clean air, and nutritious food, emphasizing the right to health without discrimination.
Ramadan Ends - Monday, April 8
Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of a month-long fast with joyous gatherings, feasting, and gratitude, as Muslims reflect on a period of spiritual renewal and devotion.
Eid al-Fitr – Tuesday, April 9 - Wednesday, April 10
Eid al-Fitr is a significant Islamic holiday celebrated at the conclusion of Ramadan, symbolizing the end of the fasting month with communal prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. It is a time for Muslims to express gratitude, enjoy the company of family and friends, and share blessings with those in need, fostering a sense of unity and generosity.
National Day of Silence – Friday, April 12
The National Day of Silence is an annual day of action to protest the bullying and harassment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ+) students. Participants take a vow of silence to highlight the silencing and erasure of LGBTQ+ voices in schools and educational institutions, advocating for a safe and inclusive environment for all students regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Start of Ridvan (Baha'i) — Sunday, April 21
The Start of Ridvan is a joyous Baha'i festival commemorating the 12-day period when Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, declared His mission as God's messenger in the garden of Ridvan in Baghdad in 1863. This festival, known as the "King of Festivals," begins on April 21st and is celebrated with prayers, gatherings, and reflections on Baha'u'llah's teachings of unity, peace, and justice.
Earth Day – Monday, April 22
Earth Day, first celebrated on April 22, 1970, was initiated by Senator Gaylord Nelson to address environmental degradation. It rallied 20 million Americans, leading to the establishment of the EPA and key environmental laws. Now a global event observed by over a billion people, Earth Day promotes environmental protection and sustainability worldwide.
Passover - April 22 - 30
Passover is a Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt, as described in the Exodus story. It is observed through rituals like the Seder meal, which includes symbolic foods and readings, emphasizing themes of freedom, redemption, and gratitude to God for deliverance.
Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day - April 24
Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day is observed annually on April 24 to commemorate the victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. This day honors the memory of the estimated 1.5 million Armenians who were systematically exterminated by the Ottoman Empire. It serves as a somber reminder of the need to confront history with honesty and to champion human rights globally, preventing such atrocities in the future.
