December 1 — International Prisoners for Peace Day opens in a new tab
For over 60 years, War Resisters’ International (of which P.E.A.C.E. is an associate member) have on this day, announced the stories and names of those imprisoned because of their actions for peace. With the goal of refusing to join the military, many are conscientious objectors. Others have taken nonviolent actions to disrupt preparation for war.
This day provides a great opportunity for you to demonstrate your support for those individuals and their movements, by writing to those whose freedom has been taken away from them because of their work for peace.
December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities opens in a new tab
The International Day of Disabled Persons was established in 1992 by the United Nations. This day has become an annual observance day to celebrate and support the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, to raise awareness when thinking about political, social, economic and cultural life involvement.
December 7 – 15th — Hanukkah opens in a new tab
Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, is the Jewish eight-day celebration of the wintertime “festival of lights”. This festival is often observed with lighting a ceremonial candelabra called a menorah, reciting special prayers and eating foods such as latkes – fried pancakes made with potatoes or other vegetables.
December 22 — Soyal opens in a new tab
Per the website, this ceremony is celebrated over a period of 16 days which starts with prayers and supplications and ends with a feast and Kachina Dance. The Native American name for this important ceremony is ‘Soyalangwul’ from which the term ‘Soyal’ is derived.
December 25 — Christmas
Christians around the world celebrate the birthday of Jesus Christ on multiple days: Christmas Eve, first and second Christmas Day, as well as the Twelve Days of Christmas.
December 26 to January 1 — Kwanzaa opens in a new tab
A Pan-African and African American holiday, celebrating family, community, and culture. Kwanzaa gifts to children traditionally include books.
