August Month Long Observances

• Black Business Month
• Intersectionality Awareness Month
• National Civility Month

July 18 –  August 17: South Asian Heritage Month

South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM) is a month-long observance that takes place from July 18 to August 17 to celebrate and reflect on the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of people from the South Asian diaspora. The diaspora includes communities with heritage from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. 

Established in 2020, SAHM aims to explore the deep connections between South Asia and the United Kingdom (UK), acknowledging shared histories shaped by colonialism, migration, and identity. The month is also an opportunity to highlight the diversity within South Asian cultures, promote dialogue, and celebrate the ongoing contributions of South Asian people to British society.

The timing of SAHM is significant:

• July 18 marks the date the Indian Independence Act was passed in 1947, leading to the creation of India and Pakistan as independent nations.
• August 17 commemorates the announcement of the Radcliffe Line, which established the border between India and Pakistan, triggering one of the largest mass migrations in history, accompanied by widespread violence and the deaths of hundreds of thousands.

August 1 – Lughnasadh

Lughnasadh (pronounced LOO-nuh-suh or LOO-nahs) is a Celtic festival celebrating the beginning of the harvest season, traditionally observed on August 1st. It falls about halfway between the summer solstice and the autumn equinox.

The festival is named after Lugh, a god of the sun, craftsmanship, and skill in Irish mythology. Lughnasadh was originally a time to give thanks for the first fruits of the harvest, especially grains like wheat and barley. People celebrated with feasting, athletic games, markets, and religious ceremonies to honor the land’s bounty.

Traditional customs often included:

• Baking bread from the first harvest
• Making corn dollies (decorative figures from harvested grain)
• Participating in games and competitions

In modern times, Lughnasadh is still observed in Ireland and Scotland with fairs and community gatherings. It is also celebrated by many modern Pagans and Wiccans as one of the eight Sabbats on the Wheel of the Year.

Common Modern Practices

• Connecting with Nature: People often celebrate by spending time outdoors (hiking, picnicking, or visiting farms) to honor the earth’s abundance.
• Gratitude and Reflection:The season is used as a time to express gratitude for personal and communal growth, and to reflect on what to release before autumn.
• Creative Expression: Workshops and activities celebrating music, crafts, storytelling, and other skills honor Lugh’s association with creativity and talent.

• Honoring Lugh: Rituals, offerings, and prayers may be held to pay tribute to Lugh, recognizing his role in the festival’s origins and his connection to light, skill, and craftsmanship.