October 1 — First day of LGBT History Month
Celebrate the lives and achievements of people who have been marginalized because of their sexual orientation and gender identity and expression. GLSEN and Welcoming Schools offer resources for an inclusive and affirming curriculum.
October 2 — International Day of Nonviolence
On October 2nd, we globally celebrate a Day of Nonviolence. The leader of the Indian Independence Movement and a pioneer of nonviolent resistance, Mahatma Gandhi, was born on this day.
Octboer 5 — World Teachers’ Day
Almost everybody has a favorite teacher, someone who went above and beyond to encourage you because they could see your potential. On October 5, take time to celebrate World Teachers’ Day — a global event launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1994.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
October 10 — Indigenous Peoples Day
Indigenous Peoples Day is a day that commemorates Native American peoples’ cultures and histories and acknowledging the discrimination the Indigenous people in this country have undergone. This holiday is celebrated on the second Monday in October, across the United States. Many states and cities are moving towards recognition of this day and choosing to observe it instead of Columbus Day. This is a day to learn, to observe, to reflect, to create, to connect through story and creation. It’s also a day to move beyond recognition and towards action and accountability.
The history of Indigenous people in the U.S. is tragic and poorly understood. There is the horrific legacy of entire cultures being violently and systematically eradicated. And then there are stories of survival, fortitude, and deep connection to the environment and other people. Of course, Indigenous history doesn’t begin or end with either of these stories.
October 9 — First day of Sukkot
(begins at sunset on October 9th)
In Judaism, Sukkot is a seven-day harvest holiday commemorating the 40-year period in which the Jews wandered the desert. (2022–2023 Planning to Change the World p.139)
October 11 — International Day of the Girl Child
This year’s theme is going to be “Our time is now — our rights, our future”. This unique day provides opportunities for young girls around the world to have their voices heard regarding impactful changes they would like to see.
The United Nations website provides us with the following ideas:
- Share human interest stories, blogs and videos of girl change-makers, and the inspiring networks and organizations that are resourcing girls, letting girls lead, and strengthening services for girls. Let’s collectively amplify their leadership, actions, and impact to inspire others.
- Engage government officials, policy-makers and stakeholders to make more targeted investments that tackle inequalities experienced by girls, especially while accessing mental health and psychosocial support services in the face of conflict, forced migration, natural disasters, and the effects of climate change.
- Engage key female influencers across industries to be the face of change we want girls to see as possible. Role models speak a thousand words. Let’s change the global conversation and public perception of girl leaders.
- Amplify your commitment to raising awareness about and addressing factors that hold girls in your country and region back.
October 24 — Diwali (Deepavali), Indian Festival of Lights
Diwali is a five-day festival celebrated in Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and some Buddhist traditions. This year it lasts from October 22–26.
