December 2021 - Winter Holidays

The DEI Spotlight is a monthly forum in the SEAONC Post in partnership with the SEAONC Structural Engineering Engagement and Equity (SE3) Committee to engage our members in the mission of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the structural engineering profession.

As we approach the winter holiday season, we would like to acknowledge both religious and non-religious traditions and celebrations that take place around the world and that we or our co-workers might be celebrating. While many of our offices have days off in celebration of Christmas and New Year’s Day, many of our coworkers may celebrate other/additional religious events, changes of the season or other significant days. Below is a short description of some of the celebrations and holidays that are taking place around the world during this time of year:

• Diwali - mid-October to mid-November - this festival of lights is a major holiday celebrated by Hindus around the world. It symbolizes peace and joy, the victory of good over evil, and light over darkness. It is celebrated by decorating one’s home with lights, candles, flowers, diyas, and lamps. Prayers are also made for health, wealth, and prosperity. 
• Hanukkah - November 28th - December 6th, 2021 - an eight-day Jewish celebration for the rededication of the Holy Temple. It is typically celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting and prayers.
• Shabe Yalda - December 21st - a Persian festival to celebrate the end of fall and beginning of winter when the days start getting longer again. “Yalda”, which means “rebirth”, celebrates the triumph of light over darkness.
• Pancha Ganapati - December 21st - 25th - a five-day Hindu celebration for the Lord Ganesha. It is typically celebrated with family gatherings, food, and the exchange of cards and gifts.
• Christmas - December 25th - a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, but has become a secular celebration in many parts of the world marked by gifts and gathering with family.
• Kwanzaa - December 26th to January 1st - a seven-day celebration in appreciation of African and African-American history, heritage and culture. Similar to Juneteenth, Kwanzaa originated as a solely African-American observance and is centered on the end-of-year harvest that takes place across Africa.

What do you celebrate during the holiday season? Do you have any special traditions you would like to share? We would love to hear from you. Email us at [email protected]. ​