March Holidays and Observances

Women's History Month (March 1-31) is an annual observance celebrated in March to recognize and honor the countless contributions, achievements, and struggles of women throughout history. It is a time to reflect on the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women as well as their impact on society. This event has its roots in the feminist movement of the 1960s and 70s and was officially recognized by the US government in 1987. Today, Women's History Month is celebrated globally with a variety of events, exhibits, and educational programs that promote awareness and understanding of the role of women in shaping the world we live in today. It is an opportunity to highlight the progress made towards gender equality, while also acknowledging the ongoing struggles and barriers that women face in the pursuit of their dreams and aspirations.

Holi (March 8) is an ancient Hindu religious festival celebrated in India, Nepal, and other countries where Hinduism is practiced. Typically celebrated in the springtime, Holi signifies the arrival of the spring season. It is a festival of colors, where people splash each other with vibrant colors and dance to the beats of drums. People also enjoy savory treats and sweets and exchange gifts with each other. Holi is a great way to bring people together and celebrate the beauty of life.

St. Patrick's Day (March 17) is a cultural and religious celebration to commemorate the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. A national holiday in Ireland, it is celebrated in many parts of the world. The day typically involves parades, music, dancing, feasting, and the wearing of green clothing and shamrocks. It is also a day to remember Irish culture and heritage. Other traditions include the blessing of the shamrock, drinking Irish whiskey, and eating traditional Irish food.

Ramadan (March 22-April 21) is an Islamic holiday observed by Muslims around the world. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, when Ramadan takes place, is considered the holiest month. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, drink, and other pleasures. This period of fasting is seen as a time of spiritual reflection and devotion, and it serves to remind Muslims of their commitment to their faith. At the end of the month, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.

Events

Women’s History Month (WHM) Donation Drive. Through March 30. In honor of WHM, a variety of campus partners will be collecting donations to go to a local women’s shelter and to the people of Ukraine. For details, go to https://conta.cc/3WRZZ1B.

Talk to Me! A Workshop on Communication Strategies. Wednesday, March 22, 4 pm. The Mount Sinai Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Program (SAVI) will discuss the importance of building our body-mind connection when communicating. Practice active listening, assertive communication, and boundary setting in this interactive virtual workshop. Register here to receive the Zoom link.

Diversity Week

Queens College will host its inaugural Diversity Week from Monday, April 17 through Friday, April 21, 2023. The goal of Diversity Week is to highlight and appreciate the diverse backgrounds and cultures of QC community members as well as to explore what tools are necessary to address systemic injustice, inequity, and harm. Diversity Week is sponsored by the CUNY Chancellor’s Campus Climate Initiative and the Petrie Foundation.

Monday April 17-Thursday, April 20: Days of Dialogue and Action

Facilitated programs, activities, and events that will cover specific topics on hate and bias, community policing, culturalism, pluralism, accessibility and disability awareness, LGBTQIA+ resilience, the existence and impact of discrimination and marginalization, and social justice and equity. 

Wednesday, April 19: Passport to Diversity

This event will allow the Queens College community to explore cultures, religious affiliations, gender identities/sexual orientation, traditions, music, and food from a variety of represented countries/groups of people. 

Friday, April 21: Dismantling and Combating Hate Conference

Conference attendees will discuss and examine the current rising trend of hate incidents, speech, protests, symbols, and crimes that have occurred on college campuses throughout the country and in society at large. During the morning session, a diverse panel of civil rights leaders, local leaders, and members of law enforcement who are working diligently on issues of racism, antisemitism, and bigotry will examine the presence of hate and bias in our community. The afternoon program will include a networking lunch and breakout workshop sessions during which attendees will brainstorm and create various components of a Bias Response Plan. 

If you are interested in facilitating a program, activity, or event during Days of Dialogue; participating in the Passport to Diversity event; or facilitating a breakout session at the Dismantling and Combating Hate Conference, please complete this form. 

Register to attend Diversity Week programs here.

Register for the Dismantling and Combating Hate Conference here.

You can find a complete description of Diversity Week here. More details about Diversity Week will be shared via campus email. If you have any questions, please email Estefanie Lliguichuzca at elliguichuzca@qc.cuny.edu. 

If you wish to contact me to continue the important conversation about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Queens College, please email jerima.dewese@qc.cuny.edu. I look forward to connecting with you.