May Month Long Observances
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
- Indian Heritage Month
- Haitian Heritage Month
- Jewish-American Heritage Month
- ALS Awareness Month
- Mental Health Awareness Month
- National Military Appreciation Month
- Tourettes Awareness Month
May 1 – May Day
In the United States, May Day is most commonly recognized as International Workers’ Day. This is a time to honor the contributions, rights, and ongoing struggles of workers. Its roots trace back to the Haymarket Affair in Chicago, where workers advocating for an eight-hour workday were met with violence, an event that became a global symbol of labor rights movements.
This day continues to be marked by labor organizations, immigrant rights groups, and social justice advocates through rallies, marches, and community events. May Day highlights worker equity and dignity, including the importance of fair wages and safe working conditions. It also recognizes the vital role of immigrant labor, as many May Day events in the United States center on immigrant rights. The day emphasizes collective action and advocacy, showing how diverse communities have shaped labor protections over time. More broadly, May Day underscores how economic justice intersects with diversity, equity, and inclusion, recognizing that marginalized groups have historically faced disproportionate labor challenges and have been central to movements for workplace rights.
May 5 – National Day for Awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
May 5 is recognized across the United States and Canada as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The day brings attention to the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women and girls, and many people wear red in solidarity and recognition of the movement.
In 2022, the White House issued a proclamation expanding the day’s recognition to include all gender identities – changing “women and girls” to “persons.” As the Native Hope site notes, “While women and girls are the primary victims of violence and human trafficking among Native Americans, they are not alone. People of all ages are victims of these horrific crimes, including men, boys, infants, and the elderly.”
To show support, individuals can wear red on May 5, share information on social media, read Indigenous voices and stories, and discuss the issue with friends and family.
May 5 – Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, symbolizing resilience and national pride. Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day. The battle took place during the broader Franco-Mexican War, which lasted from 1861 to 1867. While Cinco de Mayo is considered a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it is widely celebrated in the United States as a way to honor Mexican culture and heritage, often marked with vibrant cultural festivities and community events.
May 5 – Buddha’s Birthday
Today marks the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. Buddha’s Birthday is also known as Vesak or Buddha Day.Celebrated by Buddhists around the world, the day is observed with prayers, meditation, temple visits, and acts of kindness. While customs and dates vary by country, the spirit of peace, reflection, and compassion remains central to all celebrations.
