Today@Dal

Below is a sample of dates to observe, reflect, celebrate or promote throughout the university community. The full calendar is available on the website, http://multifaithcalendar.org/cal/dologin.php?id=469

Mi’kmaq History Month
Treaty Day (October 1) marks the beginning of Mi’kmaq History Month in Nova Scotia as proclaimed in 1993 by then Premier John Savage and Mi’kmaq Grand Chief Ben Sylliboy. Its purpose is to promote public awareness about the Mi’kmaq culture and heritage for all citizens of Nova Scotia. It is celebrated annually by the Nova Scotia Government and the Mi’kmaq community to renew peace and friendship.

Islamic History Month (Canada)
In 2007, the Parliament of Canada officially declared October as Islamic History Month in Canada. This is intended to be a time for Canadians to celebrate and focus on Muslim cultural heritage and the over 1000 years of Muslim contribution to world history and knowledge in order to build bridges between Canadian Muslims and other Canadians.

Women’s History Month (Canada)
Proclaimed by the Government of Canada in 1992, Women’s History Month provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn about the many and significant contributions of girls and women to our society and to the quality of our lives. The month honours the girls and women in Canada, past and present, who have gone first and who opened doors for others to follow.

Disability Employment Awareness Month (Canada, USA)
Established to increase the awareness of the positive outcomes of hiring persons with disabilities. 

October 2
International Day of Non-Violence (UN)
Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday was chosen as an appropriate time to promote the values and principles of non-violence. Educational and public awareness events characterize this Day which was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2008. 

October 5
First Day of Sukkot
October 5 - 11: A pilgrimage feast and a time of thanksgiving, it celebrates God’s presence in creation and among the Jewish people. 

Bodhidharma Memorial
Anniversary of the death of Bodhidharma, the 28th patriarch in the Zen tradition, who brought the Zen transmission from India into China. 

October 8
Karwa Chauth
A fasting ritual observed by all married Hindu women who seek the longevity, prosperity and well-being of their husbands. This festival is very popular amongst married Hindu women in the western and northern parts of India.​