September Month Long Observations

• National Guide Dog Month
• National Recovery Month
• Suicide Prevention Month

Latina/o/x American Heritage Month

Latina/o/x Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, is a time to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Latina, Latino, and Latinx communities across the United States. The celebration began as National Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 when Congress authorized the weeklong observance, which was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, recognizing the growing impact and diversity of these communities, Congress expanded the observance to a full month, and President Ronald Reagan signed it into law.

The dates were chosen to coincide with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. This month highlights the vibrant traditions, languages, and achievements of people whose roots trace back to Latin America and the Caribbean.

From art and music to politics, science, and social justice, Latina/o/x individuals have played vital roles in shaping the nation’s story. It also offers an opportunity to reflect on ongoing challenges and celebrate the resilience, creativity, and strength of these communities.

Join us in recognizing and uplifting Latina/o/x voices and stories as we embrace the vibrant tapestry of culture and heritage that enriches us all.

September 1 – Labor Day

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed on the first Monday in September. It honors and recognizes the American labor movement and the contributions of workers to the development and achievements of the country.

The holiday was established in the late 1800s during the Industrial Revolution, a time when many Americans including children as young as five were working 12 hour days, seven days a week, often in harsh and unsafe conditions. In response to these exploitative labor practices, protests and strikes erupted across the country.

On September 5, 1882, approximately 10,000 workers took unpaid leave to march from City Hall to Union Square in New York City, marking the first Labor Day parade in US history. Their demonstration brought national attention to the labor movement. On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed Labor Day into law as a national holiday.

September 3 – 9: Semana de La Lactancia Latina

The observance celebrates Latina/x families who breast or chest feed and raises awareness about the barriers within the community.

Barriers

1. Lack of Access to Culturally Competent Support

Some healthcare providers and lactation consultants may not fully understand or respect cultural practices and language needs, making it harder for Latina/x families to get personalized, supportive care.

2. Language Barriers

Limited English proficiency can make it difficult to access information, attend classes, or communicate concerns about breastfeeding.

3. Workplace Challenges

Many Latina/x parents work in jobs without paid maternity/paternity leave, flexible schedules, or designated spaces for pumping, making it tough to continue breastfeeding.

4. Economic Barrier

Limited financial resources can restrict access to breastfeeding supplies, supportive services, or healthcare.

5. Healthcare Disparities

Latina/x families may face systemic inequities such as inadequate prenatal and postnatal care or lower rates of breastfeeding education.

6. Immigration and Legal Challenges

Fear related to immigration status or lack of access to healthcare due to legal barriers can impact the support they receive.

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and the barriers faced by Latinx families around breastfeeding and chestfeeding can vary widely depending on individual circumstances and community contexts.

September 4 – 5: Eid Milad ul-Nabi 

Eid Milad ul-Nabi is observed as a public holiday in many countries with large Muslim communities, marking the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. Celebrated during the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It includes night-long prayer sessions, processions and parades, and gatherings where people share stories and poems (nats) about the life and teachings of the Prophet. It is a time for reflection, community, and celebration across the Muslim world.

Historically, Eid Milad ul-Nabi holds deep significance as it commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, who is regarded by Muslims as the final messenger of God. His teachings laid the foundation for Islamic faith, ethics, and community life. The holiday serves not only as a celebration, but also as a reminder of the values of compassion, justice, and peace that are central to Islam.

Culturally, the observance brings together diverse Muslim communities to honor their shared heritage and strengthen bonds of faith and solidarity. Through prayers, storytelling, and communal gatherings, Muslims around the world reaffirm their connection to their spiritual roots and to one another. The observance also encourages deeper understanding of Islamic history and values and offers an opportunity for all of us to appreciate the rich cultural traditions that shape our diverse communities.

September 8 – 12: Disability Voting Rights Week

Disability Voting Rights Week is organized by the REV UP Campaign, which stands for Register! Educate! Vote! Use your Power! and is led by the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD). A nationwide and nonpartisan movement, the campaign focuses on: advocacy, celebrating community, and building power. At its heart, it is all about empowering voters with disabilities and promoting full access to the ballot. The campaign works year round to foster a more inclusive democracy through advocacy, outreach, and education.

More than 38 million eligible voters in the United States have a disability, yet many continue to face physical, technological, and systemic obstacles to participating in our democracy. These barriers include inaccessible polling places, lack of accessible voting materials, and voter suppression tactics that disproportionately impact people with disabilities, especially those who also belong to other marginalized communities.

As members and supporters of LWV, we know that empowering every voter means addressing the inequities that limit participation. That includes amplifying disability rights as voting rights.

Here’s how you can take action:

• Host or share educational events on disability voting rights and accessibility
• Partner with local disability rights organizations to better understand community needs
• Audit your voter outreach materials to ensure they are inclusive and accessible
• Promote accessible registration and voting tools on social media during DVRW
• Encourage poll worker training on disability etiquette and ADA compliance
• Write an op-ed for your local newspaper
• Ask your local government leaders to issue a proclamation for Disability Voting Rights Week

Let’s make this week a moment of action and reflection. Together, we can work toward a democracy where every voter counts and every voice is heard.

For more information: https://www.aapd.com/disability-voting-rights-week/ 

September 10 – World Suicide Prevention Day

In 2003, the International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), established World Suicide Prevention Day to raise awareness about suicide. The goal is to focus attention on this critical issue, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking help, and sharing the vital message that suicide is preventable. 

The theme for 2024-2026 is "Changing the Narrative on Suicide," encouraging everyone to “start the conversation.” Open dialogue about suicide is essential to understanding this complex issue and shifting cultural norms from silence and judgment toward empathy and support. This three-year theme also aims to prioritize mental health and suicide prevention in policymaking, increase access to mental health professionals, and provide support for those in need. 

Resources 

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, you can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7. You can also chat with the Lifeline at 988lifeline.org. For more specific resources: https://988lifeline.org.

To view statistics on suicides in Wisconsin and for more resources on how to get help, scan the QR code.

September 15  – World Afro Day

This day honors Afro hair and the deep cultural meaning it carries. It is dedicated to uplifting the beauty, history, and traditions connected to Afro hair while also advocating for an end to hair-based discrimination. Through the movement “Fix the Law, Not Our Hair,” the goal is to challenge bias and push for protections in every setting, from classrooms to workplaces.

Key themes

• Celebration: Recognizing and embracing the beauty, strength, and diversity of Afro hair.
• Education: Building awareness of the science, history, and cultural significance of Afro hair.
• Action: Driving change through community events and policy advocacy to ensure legal protections against hair discrimination.

September 16 – Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day marks the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence from Spain in 1810. The movement began in the early hours of September 16, 1810, when Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a Catholic priest in the town of Dolores, rang the church bell. He issued a call to arms known as the “Grito de Dolores” (“Cry of Dolores”), which rallied the people to fight for their liberation. This event set off a struggle that lasted more than a decade before Mexico officially gained independence in 1821.

Today, the holiday is celebrated across Mexico and by Mexican communities worldwide with parades, music, fireworks, festivals, and reenactments of the Grito de Dolores. On the night of September 15, the President of Mexico reenacts the historic cry from the National Palace balcony in Mexico City, an event that is broadcast nationwide.

September 18 – International Equal Pay Day

International Equal Pay Day shines a light on the global movement for equal pay for equal work. It raises awareness about the gender pay gap and underscores the need for both economic fairness and gender equality in the workplace. Launched in 2019, the day serves as a reminder that pay inequities remain across industries and professions. It calls attention not only to the gap between men and women but also to the even greater wage disparities experienced by Black women, Indigenous women, and members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community.

September 20 – HeForShe

HeForShe is a global solidarity movement initiated by UN Women that encourages people of all genders – especially men and boys – to take action in promoting gender equality. The campaign emphasizes that achieving equality is not just a women’s issue but a human rights issue that requires everyone’s participation.

It includes advocacy, education, and community engagement, encouraging men to challenge gender stereotypes, speak out against discrimination, and support women’s empowerment in workplaces, schools, and communities.

September 21 – International Day of Peace

Observed annually, the UN’s International Day of Peace calls on all nations to uphold a ceasefire and promote nonviolence. Each year, the UN bell in New York City is rung to mark the beginning of this day dedicated to peace.

Established in 1981 by unanimous UN resolution, the day provides a shared moment for humanity to commit to peace, rise above differences, and work toward a global Culture of Peace. The 2025 theme is “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”

September 22 – 24: Rosh Hashanah begins

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, and one of Judaism’s holiest days. It begins sunset on Monday, September 22 and ends on the nightfall of Wednesday, September 24. It traditionally commemorates the creation of humanity, a day of judgment, and the coronation of G‑d as king.

The Jewish holiday is a time of celebration, reflection, and repentance, focusing on reviewing the past year and seeking forgiveness for any wrongdoing. Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a period that concludes with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

September 22 – October 1: Navratri

Navratri is derived from two Sanskrit words – ‘nava’ (nine) and ‘ratri’ (night). This is a major Hindu festival that spans nine nights and ten days, dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga and her various forms. Navratri celebrates the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Durga’s triumph over the demon Mahishasura. It is observed with fasting, prayers, devotional songs, dances (like Garba and Dandiya), and cultural events. Each of the nine nights is associated with a different form of the goddess, emphasizing different virtues such as strength, wisdom, and prosperity.

The festival concludes with Dussehra (Vijayadashami), which celebrates the ultimate victory of good over evil, often marked with dramatic reenactments, effigy burnings, and community festivities.

September 22 – Mabon

Mabon, the Autumn Equinox, is a Pagan and Wiccan celebration of balance and gratitude for the harvest. It marks a time of balance, when day and night are roughly equal, and is a period for harvest, thanksgiving, and reflection.

Mabon is often observed by giving thanks for the fruits of the earth, enjoying seasonal foods, and preparing for the darker months ahead. It’s a time to appreciate abundance and reflect on the cycles of nature.

September 22 – American Business Women’s Day

American Business Women’s Day is observed annually on September 22 to honor and recognize the contributions of women in the business world. The day celebrates women who have made an impact in entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, and professional careers, highlighting their achievements, determination, and leadership.

It also serves to encourage mentorship, networking, and support for women pursuing business and professional growth, while raising awareness about the ongoing challenges women face in the workplace.

September 23 – International Day of Sign Languages

Established by the United Nations in 2018, this day promotes linguistic and cultural diversity while advocating for equal access to communication and education for deaf individuals. Sign languages are complete and unique languages, each with its own grammar and vocabulary, and serve as the primary mode of communication for many deaf and hard-of-hearing people worldwide. There are over 300 distinct sign languages used globally, along with International Sign, which enables communication across countries and in international settings.

International Day of Sign Languages raises awareness of the critical role sign language plays in ensuring the human rights and full development of deaf individuals. Early access to sign language, including quality education in sign language, is essential for personal growth and achieving global development goals. Preserving and promoting sign languages supports both cultural diversity and the principle of “nothing about us without us,” which emphasizes the active participation of deaf communities in decisions affecting them.

The observance serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role sign languages play in preserving cultural identity and promoting equality. It encourages governments, organizations, and communities worldwide to take concrete steps to protect, promote, and integrate national sign languages into education, public life, and policy. By doing so, it reinforces the rights, dignity, and inclusion of deaf individuals, ensuring that their voices are heard and their contributions valued in every society.

September 23 – Bi Visibility Day

Bi Visibility Day celebrates and raises awareness of bisexual people and their contributions to society. Bisexuality means being attracted – emotionally, romantically, or physically – to both the same and different genders. The date marks the anniversary of the first public celebration of bisexuality in the United States in 1999.

The day highlights the unique challenges bisexual individuals face, including: biphobia, erasure, and harmful stereotypes – such as being “unfaithful,” “not monogamous,” or that bisexuality is “just a phase.” Bisexual people are often the most overlooked members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Bi Visibility Day promotes acceptance, understanding, and visibility. Many celebrate the day by flying the bisexual pride flag, which is pink, purple, and blue.

September 26 – Native American Day

Native American Day is observed annually on the fourth Friday of September to honor the people who have been part of the continent’s history long before the United States was established. The holiday highlights the heritage, culture, and contributions of Native American communities, celebrates their enduring traditions, knowledge, and resilience. It is also a time to recognize the strength, perseverance, and creativity that have been passed down through generations.

Some states mark a similar occasion called Indigenous Peoples’ Day, which acknowledges the diverse groups across the continent. This includes hundreds of tribes, from the Inuit of Alaska to the Cherokee of the southeastern woodlands, each with its distinct language, culture, and customs.