We'd like to highlight several holidays and observances throughout January to recognize TGen's diversity
of cultures and expressions. Please let us know if we’ve missed any so we can include your observance
suggestion for 2026.
Cervical Cancer Awareness Month
January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to educate, support, and advocate for the
prevention and early detection of cervical cancer. Regular screenings, HPV vaccinations, and awareness
of symptoms are key to saving lives. Let’s collaborate to spread knowledge and empower communities to
prioritize cervical health in 2025 and beyond.
New Years’ Day | Wednesday, January 1
New Year's is celebrated worldwide with unique cultural traditions. It symbolizes a time for new
beginnings, resolutions, and reflections on the year past while embracing new opportunities in the year to
come. Cheers to a year filled with health, happiness, and success!
World Braille Day | Saturday, January 4
World Braille Day celebrates Braille's vital role in empowering individuals who are blind or visually
impaired. It honors Louis Braille, the inventor of this transformative system, and raises awareness about
accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all. Let’s continue to support efforts that ensure
everyone can access education, information, and independence.
Eastern Orthodox Christmas | Tuesday, January 7
This sacred day emphasizes faith, humility, and the spiritual joy of Christ's Nativity. It is a time for families
to gather, attend divine liturgies, and reflect on the hope and peace brought by this holy celebration.
Eastern Orthodox Christmas is celebrated later, on January 7th, because many Eastern Orthodox
churches follow the Julian calendar for religious observances rather than the Gregorian calendar used
in most of the world today. The Julian calendar, introduced by Julius Caesar in 46 BCE, is about 13 days
behind the Gregorian calendar due to differences in how leap years are calculated.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day | Monday, January 20
Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed on the third Monday of January, honors the life and legacy of Dr.
King, a leader who championed equality, justice, and nonviolent change. It’s a day to reflect on his
profound impact on civil rights and to recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive and equitable
society. Let this day inspire us to continue his work and carry forward his message of hope, unity, and
love.
Mahayana New Year | Saturday, January 25
Mahayana New Year, celebrated by Mahayana Buddhists in January, is a time for reflection, renewal, and
gratitude. It marks an opportunity to cleanse the mind, practice compassion, and focus on spiritual growth
for the year ahead. As we honor this tradition, may it inspire peace, mindfulness, and positive intentions in
all aspects of life.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day | Monday, January 27
International Holocaust Remembrance Day, observed on January 27th, honors the memory of the six
million Jews and millions of others who lost their lives during the Holocaust. It is a solemn occasion to
reflect on the lessons of history, stand against hatred and prejudice, and reaffirm our commitment to
ensuring such atrocities are never repeated.
As always, we welcome questions, concerns, or suggestions, which can be sent to
[email protected]
or any of the members listed on the DEI Hub page.