Chatham County recognizes that this world is rich with diversity and welcomes the opportunity to reflect on the observances celebrated by various cultures and populations. The acknowledgement of some of the diverse holidays and celebrations of employees and community members is an opportunity to enhance our workplace and community cultural awareness and understanding. 

Cultural Observance Days in November:

November 1^st Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is traditionally celebrated by Hindus. It is the most important holiday of the year for Hindus, much like Christmas is to Christians. Over the centuries, other religions such as Jainism, Buddhism and Sikhism have joined and started celebrating Diwali.

November 11 Veterans Day🗽and Remembrance Day🍁 Veterans Day and Remembrance Day are memorial days observed in the United States, Canada, and other Commonwealth member states since the end of the First World War to honor armed forces members who have died in the line of duty. Many people wear artificial poppies on their clothes weeks before Veterans Day and Remembrance Day. Red poppies symbolize the memory of those who died, and white poppies campaign for non-military interventions in conflict situations.

November 20 Transgender Day of Remembrance has been observed annually on November 20 as a day to memorialize those who have been murdered as a result of transphobia. The day was founded to draw attention to the continued violence endured by transgender people. The day was originally started in 1999 by transgender advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998.

November 25 International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women  was developed by the UN Secretary-General and UN Women in 2000.  The event aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.

November 28 Thanksgiving is often linked to the 1621 harvest meal shared between English colonists and the Wampanoag people in Plymouth. While this story has become a central part of the holiday's history, it’s important to recognize that this narrative overlooks the broader and more complex history of colonization. The Wampanoag, like many Indigenous communities, faced displacement and violence as settlers took control of their lands and resources. Understanding this fuller context helps to acknowledge the ongoing impact of colonization on Indigenous communities, particularly the Wampanoag. 

November is also Native American Heritage Month is observed in the United States every November to honor the history, culture, and contributions of Native Americans. It is a time for educational events, ceremonies, and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples and their impact on our nation.