Celebrating Cultures across the University of Birmingham
Diwali (also called Divali or Deepavali) [29/10-4/11] is a ‘festival of lights’ that celebrates the triumph of light over dark, good over evil and the blessings of victory, freedom and enlightenment. The name comes from Sanksrit dipavali, meaning ‘row of lights’. On the night of Diwali, celebrants light dozens of candles and clay lamps (called diyas), placing them throughout their … Continue reading “Diwali”
Frances Hodgson Burnett (1849-1924) was born in Cheetham Hill, Manchester. Sadly her father, an ironmonger with his own business in Deansgate, died when Frances was four years old and while her mother was pregnant with her fifth child. From her grandmother, who bought her books, Frances learned to love reading, in particular her first book, The … Continue reading “Frances Hodgson Burnett – centenary”
Simchat Torah or Simhat Torah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates and marks the conclusion of the annual cycle of public Torah readings, and the beginning of a new cycle. The main celebrations of Simchat Torah take place in the synagogue during evening and morning services. In Orthodox, as well as many conservative congregations, this is the only time of year … Continue reading “Simchat Torah 24-25 October”
The purpose of International Pronouns Day is to make space for people to share their pronouns and to promote respect and inclusion of all gender identities. Referring to people by the pronouns they determine for themselves is basic to human dignity. Being referred to by the wrong pronouns particularly affects transgender and gender nonconforming people. Together, … Continue reading “International Pronouns Day 19 October”
The theme for this year’s World Menopause Day is ‘Menopause Hormone Therapy’. World Menopause Day was established in 1984 by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Menopause Society (IMS) with the intention of spreading awareness about this condition that affects women as they age. Speaking up about the menopause often does not come … Continue reading “World Menopause Day 18 October”
Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year in Judaism. According to tradition, it is on Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) that God decides each person’s fate, so Jews are encouraged to make amends and ask forgiveness for sins committed during the past year. The holiday is observed with a day-long fast, confession, intensive prayer … Continue reading “Yom Kippur 11-12 October”
The World Health Organisation recognises World Mental Health Day on 10 October every year. This year’s theme is ‘It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace’. The green ribbon is in the international symbol of mental health awareness. Mental health problems exist in our lives, families, workplaces and communities, impacting everyone. We need … Continue reading “World Mental Health Day 10 October”
Navaratri (meaning ‘nine nights’) is a Hindu festival celebrated every autumn. It is usually held at harvest time. Lasting for nine days, Navaratri celebrates good triumphing over evil. During the festival, three goddesses are worshipped: Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. The first three nights are dedicated to Durga (the mother goddess representing power), the next three … Continue reading “Navatri 3-12 October”
The theme for this year’s National Poetry Day is ‘Counting’. National Poetry Day is the annual mass celebration on the first Thursday of October that encourages everyone to make, experience and share poetry with family and friends. Each year we come together because voices, words and stories help to bridge understanding in our community. 66.5% … Continue reading “National Poetry Day 3 October”
The theme for this year’s Black History Month ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ and marks a significant shift towards recognising and correcting the narratives of Black history and culture. The main aims of Black History Month are to celebrate the achievements and contributions of black people throughout the world and to educate all on black history. At the … Continue reading “Black History Month”
