Information from a calendar of annual human rights observances on the Morgantown City website and from Diversity Resources.
December 1: Rosa Parks Day
Rosa Parks Day commemorates the civil rights leader’s courageous stance against racial segregation on a bus in 1955. It’s a day to reflect on her legacy and the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.
December 2: International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
Slavery is not just history but affects over 30 million persons throughout the world today. Its roots are in discrimination, poverty and indebtedness, vulnerability, and the rule of law.
December 3: International Day of Disabled Persons
Raises awareness about persons with disabilities in order to improve their lives and provide them with equal opportunity.
December 7: National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Observed in the U.S., this day remembers those who lost their lives during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. It honors their sacrifice and is marked by memorials and ceremonies across the country.
December 10: International Human Rights Day
On this day in 1948 the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
December 16: Bill of Rights Day
Commemorates the signing into law of the ten original amendments of the United States Constitution in 1791 – including the First Amendment Rights of religion, association, speech, petition, and press.
December 18: International Migrants Day
A day to affirm commitment to diverse and open societies which provide opportunities and lives of dignity for all migrants.
December 20: International Human Solidarity Day
This United Nations day promotes global solidarity, encouraging nations to support each other in the pursuit of social justice and sustainable development. It emphasizes unity and cooperation to address global challenges.
November 25: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
A day for emphasizing awareness that violence against women is a preventable human rights violation based on discrimination against women and a perception of inequalities between men and women.
December 26: Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African heritage and cultural values, observed with rituals, feasts, and community gatherings. Each day highlights a principle such as unity, self-determination, or creativity, celebrating the richness of African traditions.
Information from Diversity Resources.
December 6: Christian - Saint Nicholas Day
Celebrates Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of children.
December 8: Buddhist - Bodhi Day
Commemorates the enlightenment of Buddha.
December 15-22: Jewish - Hanukkah
The Festival of Lights, celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple.
December 21: Pagan and Wiccan - Yule
Celebrates the winter solstice and the rebirth of the sun.