Information from a calendar of annual human rights observances on the Morgantown City website and from Diversity Resources.
August 6: National Night Out
Marks the importance of collaborative efforts in reducing crime and for strengthening neighborhood relationships which help prevent crime and protect persons from criminal activity.
August 9: UN International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
Celebrates the richness of indigenous cultures and recognizes the challenges indigenous peoples face today, ranging from poverty and disease to dispossession, discrimination, and denial of basic human rights.
August 12: International Youth Day
Celebrates young people and the integral role they play to create a world fit for children.
August 19: UN World Humanitarian Day
Honors humanitarian workers and those affected by crises.
August 23: International Day for the Remembrance of Slave Trade and Its Abolition
Memorializes the tragedy of the transatlantic slave trade, coinciding with the anniversary of the uprising in Santa Domingo (today Haiti and the Dominican Republic) that initiated its abolition. Tragically other forms of slavery still persist today.
August 26: Women's Equality Day
Marks the certification of the 19th Amendment granting US women the right to vote.
August 30: International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearance
A day to promote taking a stand against secret imprisonment, forced disappearance and abduction and placing persons in any situation.
Black Business Month: This month, we honor Black-owned businesses in the United States. First celebrated in 2004, there are 2.6 million Black-owned businesses in America. This month hopes to push for equity in the business space and celebrate those who own a business despite daily challenges.
Intersectionality Awareness Month: Intersectionality is the idea that someone identifies with two or more marginalized groups, including gender identity or race. It’s important to try to understand the experiences that all people have with their identity. A diverse and inclusive workplace and world means that we uplift disadvantaged societal groups. By spreading awareness, we are promoting positive change.
August: This month focuses on treating others the way we want to treat others with respect and kindness. This should be something celebrated every month, but in August, it’s a main focus for the month.