April | Celebrate Diversity Month 

“We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we all must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color.” – Maya Angelou

April is “Celebrate Diversity Month,” a time to reflect on the unique heritage and experiences of the individual and to honor the vibrant community we enjoy as a result.

Race, age, religion, creed, national origin, color, political affiliation, profession, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, size and more: On their own, these attributes are an important part of what makes up an individual’s identity. In Westerville, we believe the differences among us make the community stronger. They’re what weave the tapestry of smiling faces at community events, at our beloved parks and in our local shops.

While we each bring our own unique cultures and backgrounds to Westerville, it’s the love of community and respect for our neighbors that unite us.

This Celebrate Diversity Month, let’s remember to honor the differences that make us stronger.

Ways to Celebrate This Month:

• Support diverse businesses which have been heavily impacted by the pandemic.
• Consider visiting or using services from a diverse vendor to show your support for their business.
• Host a multicultural movie night with your family. There are many great options available for great family time together.
• Attend a virtual or in-person cultural art exhibit.
• Play music from around the world. Celebrate your friends, family, and colleagues by asking them to share examples of music from their own culture or heritage during your next virtual meeting, coffee chat, or happy hour.
• Have a discussion with someone from another culture about their cultural values.
• Explore local ethnic restaurants and try food from a different culture that you’ve never tasted before.

Important Dates During Celebrate Diversity Month

World Autism Awareness Day (People with Disabilities) Sunday, April 2: A day that seeks to raise awareness, support and encourage measures to improve life for people with autism.

Ramadan (Islamic): The first day of Islam’s sacred month, believed to be when some of the first verses of the Islamic holy book, the Qu'ran, were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset.

Passover (Jewish): Jewish holiday honoring the freeing of the Israelites who were enslaved in Egypt.

Easter (Christian): The most sacred holy day in the Christian faith, celebrates the resurrection of Jesus following his death.

Earth Day (International): Celebrates the planet we live on, observed internationally in more than 192 countries.

Gathering of Nations: More than 3,000 Indigenous Americans from over 500 tribes meet and celebrate various traditions and cultures.

For more information about Celebrate Diversity Month, please visit www.diversityresources.com.