Heritage Months and Identity Recognition Days
In celebration of the histories and contributions of historically marginalized identities, Rio Salado College commemorates heritage months and identity acknowledgments throughout the year.
If you have feedback or suggestions about heritage month or identity recognition celebrations, please contact reina.ferrufino@riosalado.edu.
Heritage Months
This celebration began as a way to educate people about the history of Black Americans and their contributions to society, ensuring these perspectives are included in the national narrative. Today, it is a call to inclusion year-round and celebrates the ongoing achievements of African Americans in all realms of society.
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The celebration, which began as Women’s History Week in 1982 and became a month-long celebration in 1987, acknowledges the historical contributions of women in the United States. It also includes International Women’s Day on March 8.
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Recognizes the ongoing need to end sexual assault and support survivors. It emphasizes creating safe environments and acknowledges the resilience of those impacted by sexual violence.
Learn more about Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month.
Nationally recognized in 2021, Arab American Heritage Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of Arab Americans. Various events and proclamations across the country highlight the rich heritage and numerous contributions of the Arab American community.
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This month-long observance in May, which began as a ten-day celebration in 1977, commemorates the resilience, traditions, and cultures of Asians, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
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Established in 2006, Jewish American Heritage Month recognizes the contributions of Jewish Americans to society. This resulted from efforts by Jewish leaders to have a month dedicated to celebrating Jewish heritage and achievements.
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Created to commemorate the Stonewall Rebellion of June 28, 1969, LGBTQ+ Pride Month celebrates the progress of LGBTQ+ history and civil rights, and honors the achievements and stories of the queer community.
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Following the Americans with Disabilities Act's signing on July 26, 1990, Disability Pride Month honors the uniqueness and contributions of people with disabilities. It celebrates diversity and promotes inclusion and accessibility.
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Chosen for significant LGBTQ+ dates, this month honors the history, activism, and contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals. It includes events like National Coming Out Day and Spirit Day.
NDEAM celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and promotes inclusive employment practices. It highlights the importance of creating supportive and accessible workplaces. Learn more about NDEAM by following this video link:
Native American Heritage Month celebrates the long history of Indigenous people and communities. During this month we acknowledge the rich culture, unique traditions, and ongoing contributions of Native Americans. Learn more about Native American Heritage Month by following this video link:
Identity Recognition Days
A federal holiday on the third Monday of January, celebrating the life and achievements of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It is a day to honor his legacy and promote equality.
Learn more about Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Watch a video of Rio Salado staff reciting MLK Jr.'s "I have a dream".
Celebrated by many Asian communities, the Lunar New Year marks the first new moon of the lunar calendar. It includes various cultural festivities such as the Lantern Festival.
Recognizing Civil Rights leader Rosa Parks, this day is celebrated on her birth date, February 4, and the date of her arrest, December 1, in different states. It honors her role in the Civil Rights Movement.
This annual event on March 31 celebrates transgender people and raises awareness about the discrimination they face, highlighting their contributions to society.
Learn more about International Day of Transgender Visibility.
Commemorating the end of slavery in the U.S., Juneteenth marks the arrival of federal troops in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. It celebrates freedom and African American culture.
Watch a video of Rio Salado’s Juneteenth Celebration 2024 with Dr. Racquel Armstrong.
An annual awareness day on October 11 supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in coming out. It emphasizes the importance of living openly and authentically.
A holiday recognizing and honoring Native American peoples and cultures. It was formally recognized by President Joe Biden in 2021.
Established to honor the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, this day raises awareness of the strengths and visibility of first-generation college students, faculty, and staff.
An annual observance on November 20 honoring the memory of transgender people whose lives were lost to anti-transgender violence.
Promotes the rights and well-being of people with disabilities, raising awareness of their experiences and the need for inclusive practices.
Learn more about International Day of Persons with Disabilities.