A Diversity Message From Neil Meltzer - August 2018

August 9 marks the International Day of the World's Indigenous People. The day recognizes the unique cultures and traditions of the indigenous populations around the world. It also commemorates their achievements, contributions and challenges they have faced throughout history and today. August 9 was chosen to remember the day of the first meeting of the United Nations (UN) Working Group on Indigenous Population in 1982.

The Qixi Festival, China's version of Valentine's Day, falls on August 17. The festival originated from one of the most moving love stories in Chinese mythology. According to the story, Zhi Nui, the daughter of a goddess, fell in love with Niu Lang, a cowherd. Their love was forbidden and, as a result, the two were banished to opposite ends of the Milky Way. On this day, all of the magpies on earth form a bridge allowing the two lovers to meet once a year. Much like Valentine's Day here, in China, the Qixi Festival is a romantic occasion celebrated with gifts (such as chocolates and flowers) and symbols of love for special people in one's life.

On August 19, we celebrate the dedicated work and lives of humanitarians and people who have lost their lives helping others with World Humanitarian Day. It is observed on August 19 to commemorate the tragic loss of 22 aid workers who were killed in the bombing of the UN Headquarters in Baghdad in 2003. On this day, we reflect on the importance of humanitarian efforts around the globe and on how each of us can work together to make the world a better place for all.

Women's Equality Day takes place on August 26. The day is dedicated to remembering the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920, which gave women the right to vote. The idea for the day originated after Congresswoman Bella Abzug of New York introduced a resolution to designate August 26 as Women's Equality Day. In 1973, it was first celebrated, and every president has issued a formal proclamation highlighting the day and the achievements of women in our society ever since. It is also a chance to reflect upon all the work that still needs to be done until full equality is achieved.

At LifeBridge Health we celebrate both what makes us diverse and unique, and what makes us the same - our shared purpose of caring for communities together.