March Month Long Observances

• Gender Equality Month

• Irish-American Heritage Month

• Greek-American Heritage Month

• National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

• National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month

Women’s History Month

Women's History Month originated from a week-long celebration called "Women's History Week," first observed in Sonoma County, California, in 1978. The week was chosen to coincide with International Women's Day on March 8. In 1987, after a petition by the National Women's History Project, Congress passed a resolution designating March as Women's History Month. Each year, the National Women's History Alliance selects a theme to honor the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. Women's History Month was officially recognized in 1995 when President Clinton issued a proclamation, and it has been celebrated annually ever since.

March 1 - Ramadan begins

Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. It falls in the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the phases of the moon. During this month, Muslims commemorate the moment when the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran, the holy book of Islam. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of spiritual discipline. 

March 4 - Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras, which means “Fat Tuesday” in French, is a festive celebration that originated in France and occurs the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, marking the close of the pre-Lenten season. The Christian celebrations leading up to Mardi Gras begin on the Epiphany (12th Night), and the period of Lent that follows is devoted to fasting, abstinence, and penitence in commemoration of Christ's fasting in the wilderness. Popular foods consumed during Mardi Gras include king cake, jambalaya, beignets, gumbo, and red beans and rice.

March 5 - Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent in the Christian calendar, marking the beginning of a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance leading up to Easter. It is observed by many Christians through church services, where ashes are placed on the forehead in the shape of a cross as a symbol of repentance. The day emphasizes humility and reflection, reminding believers of their mortality and the need for spiritual renewal.

March 8 - International Women’s Day 

International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated every year on March 8th to honor the achievements and struggles of women worldwide. It is a day that highlights the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women and recognizes the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. While the day is celebrated in many different ways, one thing that is consistent across all celebrations is the use of the color purple. You can make a difference by wearing purple with your friends and family on March 8th to spread awareness and support the women in your life!

March 14 - 15: Holi Festival

Holi is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrated primarily in India and Nepal, marking the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. It is known as the "Festival of Colors," where people throw colored powders at each other, dance, sing, and celebrate with friends and family. The festival symbolizes the triumph of love and the renewal of life, often associated with the playful exploits of Lord Krishna.

March 15 - International Day to Combat Islamophobia

This day was established by the United Nations to raise awareness about the harmful effects of Islamophobia, which refers to prejudice, discrimination, and hostility directed at Muslims or those perceived to be Muslim because of their faith. The day aims to stand against hatred and violence based on religion while focusing on fostering understanding, tolerance, and respect for diversity. Another goal is to encourage people to work toward creating a more respectful world where everyone, regardless of their religion, can live without fear of being judged or mistreated.

March 17 - St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is credited with bringing Christianity to the country in the 5th century. St. Patrick's Day is both a cultural and religious holiday, marked by parades, wearing green (which is linked to the legend of leprechauns), and celebrating Irish culture with music, food, and dancing. In Ireland, it serves as both a religious feast day and a national holiday, while in many parts of the world, it has become a festive occasion to celebrate Irish heritage.

March 17 - 23: Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness and promoting acceptance of the diverse ways in which people's brains work and the range of cognitive functions they may have. The week highlights the strengths and talents of individuals with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurological differences. Its goal is to challenge stereotypes, reduce stigma, and foster an inclusive environment for neurodiverse individuals. By encouraging schools, workplaces, and communities to embrace neurodiversity, the week promotes the understanding that these differences should be celebrated, not seen as disorders.

March 21 - International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

The United Nations established this day to raise awareness about the ongoing fight against racial discrimination and to promote equality for all. The date was chosen to honor the 69 lives lost during the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, when police opened fire on a peaceful protest against apartheid laws in South Africa. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of combating racism, bigotry, and inequality in all forms. People of all races and ethnicities are encouraged to reflect on the need to eliminate racial discrimination and work toward a more just and inclusive society.

March 21 - World Down Syndrome Day

This day seeks to raise awareness about Down Syndrome and promote the rights, inclusion, and well-being of people with this condition. March 21st was chosen because it represents the three copies of the 21st chromosome, which cause Down syndrome.

March 25 - International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade

This day honors the millions of men, women, and children who were victims of the transatlantic slave trade, which forcibly transported people from Africa to the Americas and other parts of the world between the 16th and 19th centuries. It serves as a reminder of the brutal history of slavery, its lasting effects on societies, and the ongoing fight against racial injustice and discrimination. The day encourages reflection on the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade, while also aiming to educate people about its impact to ensure these atrocities are never forgotten and similar injustices are prevented. In acknowledging the lasting impact of slavery, it is equally important to celebrate the resilience, strength, and enduring contributions of the descendants of those who suffered.

March 30 - Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr is a major Islamic celebration marking the end of Ramadan (a month-long time of fasting from dawn to sunset). It’s a joyful occasion with special prayers, feasts, and charity to help those in need. The date varies each year, as it’s based on the lunar calendar. It’s a time for Muslims to express gratitude, celebrate with family and friends, and give thanks for completing the fast.

March 31 - César Chávez Day

This U.S. holiday honors César Chávez, a labor leader and civil rights activist. He co-founded the United Farm Workers (UFW) union and fought for better working conditions, fair wages, and rights for farm workers, particularly those in California. The day recognizes his contributions to labor rights and social justice, and it's a time to reflect on his legacy of nonviolent activism. 

March 31 - International Transgender Day of Visibility

This day is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the transgender community. It highlights the lives, contributions, and achievements of transgender people while raising awareness about the challenges they face. Unlike Transgender Day of Remembrance, which mourns those lost to anti-transgender violence, this day is a celebration of empowerment and visibility for transgender individuals. It aims to promote acceptance, equality, and understanding for the transgender community.