A Diversity Message From Neil Meltzer - September 2019

While the summer officially ends on September 23, many of us will celebrate the unofficial end of the summer on September 2 with Labor Day. First celebrated in 1882, Labor Day was originally designed to honor the American labor movement, as well as the contributions and achievements of workers to the country. It first began with a parade featuring labor organizations in New York City on a Tuesday (September 5, 1882). Soon after, it was moved to the first Monday in September and in 1894, Congress passed legislation making it a national holiday. On this day many Americans will rest and reflect on the values of their hard work. Many also will watch or participate in sporting events and parades, enjoy barbecues and spend time with our families.

On September 11, many will take time to remember those who were injured or died during the largest terrorist attack on the country in 2001. On this day, flags will be flown at half-staff and many will observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. (ET)-the exact time when the first plane flew into the World Trade Center in New York. Some communities will hold special church services, people may visit memorials or find similar ways to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost on that tragic day.

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 to recognize the culture and contributions of those of Hispanic and Latino descent to America. Enacted in 1988, September 15 was chosen because it is the anniversary of the independence of Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16 and September18, respectively.

From sundown September 29 to sundown on October 1, Jewish people across the world will observe Rosh Hashanah, celebrating the beginning of the New Year. During this time, common Jewish customs include sounding the ram's horn (shofar), attending synagogue services, lighting candles and enjoying festive foods such as apples dipped in honey to symbolize hope for a sweet and fruitful new year.

Mabon or The Autumn Equinox begins around September 21 in the northern hemisphere (March 21 in the southern hemisphere). Recognized by Pagans, Mabon is a festival that celebrates the ending of the harvest period. With the summer drawing to a close, trees begin to turn colors, leaves fall to the ground and harvested crops are stored for the coming winter.

On September 21, International Day of Peace is observed around the world. The United Nations established the day in 1981 as a day for everyone to devote themselves to strengthening peace within and among all nations and to building a culture of peace.

At LifeBridge Health, our core values of compassion, respect and teamwork exemplify our organization's dedication to building a culture of peace. Thank you for the commitment you make every day to Care Bravely and live our LifeBridge Health values. Our Respect value is crucial to promoting both Diversity and Inclusion. There continues to be divisive dialogue throughout the country. We can't control what happens outside of LifeBridge Health, but inside of LifeBridge Health we celebrate both what makes us diverse and unique, and what makes us the same-our shared purpose of caring for our communities together.