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WB September Inclusive
Celebrations and Recognitions (2023)
On behalf of West Bloomfield Schools and the Office of Educational Equity, I extend a warm welcome as we embark on a promising school year. The beginning of the academic year brings a sense of freshness and anticipation for our students and staff. As we advance our commitment to equity, we are excited to invite our families and community members to join us in this important endeavor through our Global Equity Team.
The Global Equity Team, affectionately known as G.E.T., is dedicated to fostering a supportive and restorative community grounded in relationships and educational equity for all. Our focus areas revolve around student outreach, nurturing a positive culture and climate, and providing essential training and development opportunities.
Our inaugural meeting will take place at West Bloomfield High School in the Media Center on October 18, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. We encourage your participation and engagement in this transformative initiative.
If you are unable to become a member of the Global Equity Team, you will continue to receive our monthly WB Inclusive Celebrations and Recognitions SMORE. This publication serves as the Office of Educational Equity Newsletter, designed to keep our community informed about upcoming events, inclusive celebrations, recognitions, and various learning opportunities. We welcome your contributions, ideas, and event suggestions for inclusion in the newsletter. The SMORE newsletter is dynamic and can be updated at any time.
We invite you to peruse this September newsletter to stay informed about our ongoing efforts. We eagerly anticipate a year of learning and growth together as a united WB community. Your support and involvement are invaluable as we strive to create an equitable and inclusive educational environment.
Warm Regards,
Sonja James Executive Director of Educational Equity and Inclusion
Month Long Celebrations:
- Deaf-Awareness Month
- Hispanic Heritage Month
- Macedonian American Heritage Month
Daily Celebrations and Recognitions:
- September 4: Labor Day
- September 6: Arbaeen
- September 11: National Day of Service and Remembrance
- September 15 – 17: Rosh Hashanah
- September 16: Mexican Independence Day
- September 17: Constitution Day
- September 22: Native American Day
- September 24 – 25: Yom Kippur
- September 26 – 27: Mawlid al-Nabi
- September 29 – October 6: Sukkot
- September 29 – October 14: Pitru Paksha
Rosh Hashanah September 15-17
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is one of Judaism’s holiest days. Meaning “head of the year” or “first of the year,” the festival begins on the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar, which falls during September or October. Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two “High Holy Days” in the Jewish religion.
Mexican Independence Day: September 16
On September 16, Mexicans around the globe will celebrate the anniversary of the country’s independence from Spain. The day is marked by a national holiday in Mexico, a reenactment of a historic moment from the revolution’s leader, and an array of performances from fireworks to dance routines
Native American Day: September 22
Native American Day is celebrated on the fourth Friday of September every year, falling on September 22 this year, as a way of honoring those who have been a part of the American tradition even before the nation of the U.S.A. came into being. However, the history of the Native Americans is written in blood and violence. After centuries of persecution, not much is left of the tribes and many have integrated into modern society. Those still in touch with their roots, will remember these events and honor their ancestors’ sacrifices. Native American Day is a holiday that hopes to change the way people view Native Americans and their culture.
Yom Kippur: September 24-25
Otherwise known as the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur is considered the holiest day in Judaism. The holiday lasts approximately 25 hours and is typically observed with fasting and prayer in alignment with the themes of atonement and repentance. On Yom Kippur, people observing the holiday are asked to abstain from food and drink (among other routines or hobbies).
LEARN MORE ABOUT AND WAYS TO CELEBRATE HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH AT HOME:
Macedonian American Heritage Month
Macedonian American Heritage Month is a commemorative month in the United States that celebrates and honors the cultural heritage and contributions of Americans with Macedonian ancestry. It typically takes place during September, although the exact timing may vary from year to year. During this month, various events, exhibitions, and activities are organized to recognize and showcase the rich history, traditions, and achievements of Macedonian Americans. It's an opportunity to promote awareness and appreciation of Macedonian culture and its influence on American society. This observance helps foster a sense of pride and connection among Macedonian Americans and the broader community.
A Few Additional facts:
* Macedonia gained independence in 1991. Macedonian Independence Day is September 8.
* A Macedonian named Dragan from what is now Ohrid, Macedonia is documented to have sailed with Christopher Columbus in 1492
* Macedonian food is delicious! Check out: Afternoons with Baba on YouTube for English language recipes.
* Don’t want to cook? You can buy lots of authentic foods locally. Visit Max’s International Market in Sterling Heights, Atko Market in Shelby and Livonia or Mike’s party store in Dearborn Heights.