Cultural and Diversity Committee 

The Cultural and Diversity Committee's focus is to celebrate and raise awareness of all of the different backgrounds represented in our school. The committee's goal is to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment by promoting understanding and appreciation of diverse backgrounds and perspectives to ensure that all individuals feel valued and respected.

 

We would love to learn more about the cultures and diverse backgrounds of the GFES community.

 

Please click HERE to share more about your family and to volunteer to help the committee. 

 

SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER DIVERSITY AWARENESS

 

Hispanic Heritage Month

On September 15, we kicked off a month-long celebration for Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15). Hispanic Heritage Month was officially observed in the United States in 1968. September 15 is significant because it marks the anniversaries of independence for several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively. This month is a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions by Latinos/Hispanics in popular culture through music, food, and dance, as well as in science, art, economics, politics, and other fields.

 

Yom Kippur

Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish new year) and Yom Kippur are the two holiest days in the Jewish year. During Yom Kippur (the day of atonement), Jewish people around the world reflect on the past year, ask for forgiveness for all of the times they "missed the mark", and decide how they can be better people in the coming year.

 

Learning Disabilities Awareness Month (October)

Learning Disabilities Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness and break down stereotypes and misconceptions about learning disabilities. It is also a time to celebrate the achievements of individuals with learning disabilities and to advocate for their needs.

 

Full Moon Festival/Mid-Autumn Festival 

The Asian Full Moon Festival, also called the Mid-Autumn Festival, is one of the most important traditional celebrations across East and Southeast Asian cultures. It falls on October 6th this year and marks the end of the autumn harvest. The celebration emphasizes themes of family reunion, gratitude, and abundance. Key elements of the Mid-Autumn Festival include mooncakes, lanterns, and various regional variations. For more information provided by FCPS, please click here.

 

Diwali

Diwali is one of the most significant Hindu festivals. It marks the start of the Hindu New Year. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word “dipavali” meaning “row of lights”. The day marks the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and hope over despair. It is celebrated over five days , with the third day being the most important. Diwali is typically celebrated by dressing in colorful traditional clothing, lighting the inside and outside of homes with rows of lamps or other lights, and fireworks. There are also worship services, a large traditional feast, and a gift exchange. Diwali begins October 19 and ends October 23.

 

FIND OUT MORE WITH THE FOLLOWING BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS 

Hispanic Heritage Month:

Alma and How She Got Her Name - By: Juana Martinez-Neal

Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You - By: Sonia Sotomayor

Dreamers - By: Yuyi Morales

 

Yom Kippur:

The Hardest Word: A Yom Kippur Story - By: Jacqueline Jules 

Oh No, George! - By: Chris Haughton

Are We Still Friends - By: Ruth Horowitz

 

Diwali:

Diwali in My New Home - By: Shachi Kaushik

Binny's Diwali - By: Thrity Umrigar