April's Observations and Celebrations

Happy April! As we transition into the next month of 2022 and the new year, based on the lunar calendar, we would like to acknowledge the celebrations and observances. 

Below is a list of celebrations and observances throughout April, as well as links to government or nonprofit websites that help provide more education on each topic.

Month-long Observances & Celebrations

• Arab American Heritage Month: A month designated to recognize and celebrate the heritage and achievements of Arab Americans. Learn more at the Arab American Foundation.
• Autism Awareness Month: A month to raise awareness and understanding around autism. Learn more at the Autism Society and Autism Speaks.
• Celebrate Diversity Month: A month to acknowledge and observe all of the diversity that exists around us in our everyday lives.
• Earth Month: A month leading up to Earth Day where we can focus on the need for environmental justice, sustainability, and climate solutions. Visit the Seattle University website for more information, including local events both on campus and around the city.
• National Volunteer Month: A month for honoring all of the volunteers in our communities as well as encouraging volunteerism. Thank you, volunteers! And, don’t forget about the 8 hours of VTO available for your volunteer efforts!

Daily Observances & Celebrations

• Friday, April 1st – Ramadan Begins at sundown: A month-long observance where Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to sunset each day. It is a month of prayer, reflection, and community. You can start to learn more here.
• Saturday, April 2nd – World Autism Awareness Day: The 15th Annual Day, the focus is to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism. The Autistic Self Advocacy Network is a nonprofit working towards the goal of equal access, rights, and opportunities for autistic people.
• Friday, April 15th – Passover Begins at sundown: A Jewish festival of freedom, it commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt and their transition from slavery to freedom. You can learn more about Passover and seder here.
• Sunday, April 17th – Easter: A Christian festival and cultural holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. You can start to learn more here.
• Friday, April 22nd – Earth Day: A annual day dedicated to discussing the health of our planet, to talking about climate change, sustainability, and how we all must work together to Invest in Our Planet. Learn more at here.
• Friday, April 22nd – National Day of Silence (LGBTQIAA+): A national student-led demonstration where LGBTQ students and allies take a vow of silence to protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ individuals in schools. Learn more at the GLSEN website.
• Wednesday, April 27th – Yom Hashoah: Holocaust Memorial Day: An annual day of remembrance of the victims of the Holocaust observed by Jewish communities world-wide. You can learn more here.

We acknowledge that we may not have listed every celebration and observance that is important to you and your community. If you have a suggestion for inclusion, please email feedback@veritycu.com.