A Diversity Message from Neil Meltzer, President and CEO, and Dr. Sybil Pentsil, Chief Diversity Officer – December 2024
As we approach the end of 2024, we want to say a huge THANK YOU to all our team members for everything you do every day on all our campuses to make LifeBridge Health a safe and welcoming place for all. Our ability to work collaboratively while leveraging our individual uniqueness makes LifeBridge Health a special place to care for our patients, community and each other. As we continue to honor this spirit of inclusivity, let's take a moment to recognize the observances and holidays we celebrate together this month.
World AIDS Day (12/1)
World AIDS Day takes place every year on December 1 to raise awareness about the AIDS pandemic, mourn those lost to HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and show support for those still suffering from the disease. While advancements have been made in the treatment of AIDS, it is still widespread – some 38 million people around the globe have the virus. On World AIDS day, many will don a red ribbon, the symbol of AIDS awareness, or wear red attire to draw attention to those affected by the disease both past and present.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (12/3)
December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The annual observance of this day was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3. This United Nations holiday raises awareness for the rights, dignity and well-being of individuals with disabilities.
Hanukkah (12/25-01/2)
This year, Hanukkah takes place December 25 – January 2. The eight-day celebration of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, originates from the second century BCE, when the Israelites, led by Judah of Maccabee, overthrew the Seleucid rulers attempting to force upon Hellenistic customs and culture upon them. When they reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Jews had only one untainted cruse of oil with which to light the seven-branch candelabrum known as a Menorah, yet miraculously, this one day’s worth of oil lasted for eight days, giving birth to the celebration of Hanukkah. Celebrations include gift-giving, eating special foods fried in oil, playing with dreidels and lighting a Menorah.
Human Rights Day (12/10)
Human Rights Day honors and raises awareness for the fundamental human rights which all people are entitled to.
World Migrants Day (12/18)
World Migrants Day raises awareness about the lives and challenges of migrants, those who move from their place of residence to another. Both observances give cause for reflection and education on affronts to human dignity suffered by many people all over the world.
Winter Solstice (12/21)
Taking place on December 21, the Winter Solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere and marks the official beginning of winter. For Pagans today, winter solstice remains a time to celebrate the return of the sun’s light.
Christmas (12/25)
Christmas, observed around the world on December 25, is traditionally a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. On Christmas Day, Christians of many different denominations will attend special church services. This holiday is celebrated secularly as well – Christians and non-Christians alike decorate trees, sing carols, spend time with family and friends, exchange gifts and more.
Kwanzaa (12/26-01/01)
Observed December 26-January 1, Kwanzaa, was established in 1966 as a celebration of African American and Pan-African culture, and honors seven principles which originate widely across the African continent, expressed in Swahili: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith). The name Kwanzaa is derived from the Swahili phrase for “first fruits,” and its ceremonies include decorating with art, Kente cloth and fruit, the sharing of libations, musical performances, reflections of the principle of each day and more.
Transgender Day of Remembrance (11/20)
Transgender Day of Remembrance, observed on November 20, is a solemn occasion to honor the lives of transgender and gender-diverse individuals who have lost their lives to hate crimes and discrimination. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and injustices faced by the transgender community, and it calls upon us to stand in solidarity against prejudice and violence.
The Day of the Covenant (11/24-25)
The Day of the Covenant is a special and significant observance in the Baha’i Faith, dedicated to the concept of unity and the pivotal role of the Covenant in Baha’i beliefs. Celebrated on November 24 – 25, this day is an opportunity for Baha’is and those interested in the faith to come together and reflect on the enduring covenant that binds the Baha’i community. The Ascension of Abdu’l-Baha, observed on
November 28 is a sacred and significant day in the Baha’i Faith. It commemorates the passing of ‘Abdu’l-Baha, the appointed successor and beloved son of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith.
Calls to Action
REFLECT: As I look back on the past year, it's important to pause and recognize my achievements, progress and resilience.
RECOGNIZE: My experiences are what help me grow, whether joyous or challenging, there are lessons either way.
RESPOND: I will extend empathy and compassion to those around me who may struggle this time of year and remember to extend that same grace to myself.