This is a day for Coptics (Christians of Egyptian origin) to celebrate the Coptic New Year and the Feast of a Martyrs, which commemorates the persecution of Egyptian Christians and the massacre of the Coptics under Roman Emperor Diocletian in AD 204. Celebrations typically involve a procession of icons of the martyrs and a special feast in the presence of friends, family and community members.

For members of the Ethiopian Orthodox community, whose Church also has strong Coptic roots, the New Year is a chance to celebrate the new month as well as the Feast of St. John the Baptist. The day is called Enkutatash, meaning the "gift of jewels." This name stems from the story of the Queen of Sheba and her return from her visit to King Solomon in Jerusalem, where her chiefs welcomed her back with enku, or jewels. Celebrations of this day typically involve wearing new clothes, singing hymns, attending a sermon and gathering for a special meal with family and friends.

The Equity Department joins you in extending warm wishes to staff, students and parents who will be celebrating the Coptic and Ethiopian Orthodox New Year.

The International Day of Literacy established by UNESCO is celebrated in many countries around the world on September 8.

The International Day of Literacy was established to reaffirm the crucial role played by reading and writing in individual empowerment, sustainable development and social justice. It is important for us to realize that despite great efforts to battle illiteracy, some 880 million adults - two thirds of them women - are illiterate within the twenty-first century, and over 120 million children are not provided with education. It may also serve us well to look at both the local and international factors which prevent the creation of a fully literate world and re-dedicate ourselves to this struggle.

Some of the things one might do to mark International Literacy Day include the following:

• Sponsor a child in a reading program
• Give a book as a gift
• Volunteer to read to patients in the hospital or nursing home
• Read a book aloud to a child
• Teach someone to read
• Donate books to a women's shelter
• Visit your local library

The Equity Department would like to express its appreciation to all people, especially teachers and librarians, who play a vital role in the creation of healthy societies through literacy.

Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, is held this year on Wednesday, September 26.

Rosh Hashanah begins a solemn ten-day period of contemplation and self-examination that ends with the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur, on September 26.

The most religious time of the year for many Jews, the High Holy Days are a time both for reflecting on the year passed and for celebrating the year ahead. Many families attend synagogue, praying for peace among nations, among peoples, and within themselves in the coming year.

In this period of celebration, reverence, and prayer, we wish staff, students, parents, and members of the community who observe the High Holidays, a Happy New Year.

World Teachers' Day, established by UNESCO, is celebrated around the world on October 5.

World Teachers' Day was established by UNESCO in 1993 to honour the Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers which was passed by a special joint committee of UNESCO and the International Labour Organization (ILO) on October 5, 1966. This recommendation proclaimed that the recognition of the vital contributions of teachers should be acknowledged, celebrated and supported by all members of society.

It is important to take a moment to reflect on just some of the important tasks performed by teachers everyday:

• Teachers assist people in adapting and responding to a rapidly changing world.
• Teachers educate a diverse range of learners from varied backgrounds with different learning styles and needs.
• Teachers work very hard in developing dynamic approaches to curriculum and in implementing effective and equitable pedagogical tools and practices.

• Teachers expand horizons by bringing values such as the environment, human rights, peace, social justice and healthy living into the classroom.
• Teachers make a positive difference in people's lives by often being a source of support and comfort for students experiencing difficulties.

The Equity Department extends its support, respect and recognition to the hard-working and dedicated teachers who provide our society with the tools for personal and collective growth and development in all areas of life.

Many cultures have a time to celebrate the end of the growing season when all crops have been harvested for winter. The ancient Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians all celebrated at harvest time and thanked their gods and goddesses. Today, throughout the world, we still celebrate at this time.

Thanksgiving is a day when people get together with their families to express gratitude for all the good things that have happened during the year: for health, family, friends and, of course, food of the harvest.

We often think of European settlers as having started the celebration in North America. However, harvest feasts were held long before that. Native peoples throughout the continent harvested and preserved food to be stored for the long winter ahead and gave thanks.

Regardless of the country or culture, the story is similar. People gave thanks for a successful harvest in a new land. Since then many other people have immigrated to Canada and the United States and brought the customs of giving thanks too.

On this day of celebration and gratitude, the Equity Department wishes the students, staff and parents who observe Thanksgiving a happy and restful holiday.

(Adapted from B. Dumoulin & S. Sikundar , Celebrating Our Cultures: Language arts activities for classroom teachers. 1998. p. 10)

This year, October 13 is an important day for those practicing the Islamic faith. Mi'raj al-Nabiy marks the day when Muhammad was said to have ascended to heaven following his night journey to Jerusalem from Medina. The story of Mohammad's ascension states that the angel Gabriel gave Muhammad a wonderful winged horse named Buraq to take him to heaven where it was revealed to him that he should pray daily.

On this day, many Muslims choose to reflect upon the life of Muhammad and the qualities that made him an exemplary practitioner of the Islamic faith. In doing so, they commit themselves to emulating these qualities within their own lives.

The Equity Department joins you is recognizing Mi'raj al Nabiy as a day of personal and religious significance in the lives of staff, students and community members who practice Islam.

In 1992, the General Assembly of the United Nations declared October 17 as the "Day for the Eradication of Poverty." This day aims to promote awareness of the need to eliminate poverty and destitution in all countries.

As Kofi Annan, the U.N. Secretary-General has stated, "So long as every fifth inhabitant of our planet lives in absolute poverty, there can be no real stability in the world."

The devastating effects of poverty can be seen through the erosion of healthy development in individuals and communities. Poverty leads to inadequate standards of health, unsanitary housing, hunger, homelessness, unemployment, social exclusion and illiteracy. The majority of people who live in poverty in the world are women, children and the elderly.

During the ten years between 1996 and 2006, the United Nations is honouring the Decade for the Eradication of Poverty, which seeks to reduce absolute poverty and overall global poverty through decisive national action and international co-operation. According to the Human Development Report, the eradication of poverty is a feasible and affordable goal.

As educators, we often confront the deleterious effect of poverty on a daily basis within our classrooms. Although this can be overwhelming, we should also remember that we have potent tools at our disposal. We can educate and inspire our students to work towards transforming the conditions and attitudes that impoverish millions of people around the world. A solution is possible.

Many countries have special days on which citizens commemorate the loss of human lives during wartime. In Canada, the day is called Remembrance Day. Historically, on this occasion, many Canadians including former soldiers, or veterans, civic leaders, and citizens gather at war memorials and cenotaphs to take part in a public ceremony. Key elements of traditional services usually include the playing of the national anthem, speeches about the need for world peace, a moment of silence, and the laying of wreaths at the foot of memorials. During Remembrance Day across TDSB schools, many teachers help students to make connections from global events to their lives by condemning violence and promoting peace within the school community.

The reasons behind the choice of November 11^th for Remembrance Day are interesting. At 11 o'clock on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, an armistice, or treaty, was signed, thereby ending the First World War (1914-1918). Currently, many Canadians also commemorate people who have died during the Second World War (1939-1945), in wars around the globe, and in efforts to resist war and promote peace. Many people wear a poppy on Remembrance Day and the days leading up to it because it has symbolic significance. The poppy is a red wildflower that grows in Belgium where many Canadian soldiers died and were buried during the First World War.

Given the September 11 events and their aftermath, the Equity Department would like to join the staff, student, and parent communities of the TDSB and the wider communities around the globe in a call for peace, social justice, and a building of solidarity.

(Taken from B. Dumoulin & S. Sikundar , Celebrating Our Cultures: Language arts activities for classroom teachers. 1998, p. 22)

The birth of Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i faith, is celebrated this year on Monday, November 12.

For members of the Baha'i community, the celebration of Baha'u'llah's birthday is an important day of observance. Baha'u'llah sought to establish world peace and harmony by honouring the teachings of unity found in all religious traditions.

Baha'is typically mark this day by abstaining from work and may choose to partake in various forms of celebration including the sharing of food, the singing of songs and the reading of Baha'i scriptures.

The Equity Department extends its good wishes to all students, staff and members of the Baha'i community who will be honouring Baha'u'llah's birthday.

Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights, is celebrated on Tuesday, November 13, 2001 (Sri Lanka) and Wednesday, November 14, 2001 (India).

Diwali (short for Deepavali, meaning "line of lamps"), also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Hindu, Sikh, and Jain festival that originated in India. It celebrates the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. Diwali also signifies many different things to different people. For most Hindus, Diwali is dedicated to the Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. In Bengal, Diwali honours the goddess Kali. For Sikhs, the festival commemorates the return of the sixth guru to the Holy city of Amritsar after his release from detention. For the Jain community, it commemorates the passing into Nirvana of Mahavira. It also may be the beginning of a new year for farmers who plant their crops after Diwali, as well as for businesspeople and merchants who traditionally settle all accounts on this day and begin the new financial year. Everywhere it is celebrated, it signifies the renewal of life.

To celebrate this joyous and important festival, people get together with friends and family, exchange gifts of sweets and greet each other with the words "Subh Diwali". Some set off fireworks and wear new clothes. Many light little clay lamps, called dipas or diyas, candles, and even neon lights.

Schools will be acknowledging this festival through a variety of activities that promote sharing and understanding among students and staff.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing your students, staff, and members of the community who celebrate Diwali, a happy and festive time with friends and family.

Ramadan,the holy month of fasting and contemplation for Muslims begins today.

ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is referred to in the Qu'ran (Koran) as a blessed month in which the teachings of the Qu'ran were revealed to the prophet Muhommed. During Ramadan, most Muslims fast during the hours of daylight and also increase their focus on prayer and contemplation. At the end of each day, the fast is traditionally broken with a prayer and a light meal called the iftar.

Ramadan is considered a time for Muslims to recommit themselves to practicing compassion and generosity for others, as well as a time to cultivate spiritual renewal within themselves and their communities.

Schools should be acknowledging this day through activities that promote understanding and learning for all students.

During this time of reverence and renewal, we extend our good wishes to staff, students, parents and members of the Islamic community who will be observing Ramadan.

The birthday of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion, is celebrated this year on Friday, November 30.

The birthday of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, is the most important Gurupurab (celebration of Sikh gurus) in the Sikh religious community.

Born in AD 1469 in the province of Punjab, India, Nanak sought to heal the divide between Hindus and Muslims and expressed a message of love and harmony for all of humanity. For his followers, his birthday marks of time of rededication to humanitarian ideals and acts.

The time leading up to Guru Nanak Jayanti is traditionally filled with prayers, hymns and chants in praise of the guru. On the day of festival, the Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) is decorated with flowers and carried in a procession. This is usually accompanied by religious music, the festive bhangra dance, and the celebratory sounds of the dholak (folk drum). This procession is then often followed by the langar, a free community lunch offered in the spirit of seva (service) and bhakti (devotion). In the evening, many people illuminate their homes with lamps and candles.

On this festive and meaningful occasion for many members of the Sikh community, The Equity Department joins you in wishing staff, students and parents a happy celebration.

December 3 is the International Day of Disabled Persons that has been established by the United Nations.

the first major international action on the rights of the disabled occurred in 1976 when Libya proposed, and the UN General Assembly agreed, to designate 1981 as the UN's "International Year of Disabled Persons" (IYDP). The goal of IYDP was to encourage nations to examine the conditions of disabled citizens and establish initiatives to transform existing inequitable structures.

In a joint message from UNESCO, the ILO, UNICEF, the World Health Organization and the UN, it is stated that, "Every child has the right to an appropriate, high quality education. In the last few years there has been a major thrust towards inclusive education, creating a school that accommodates all children, regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional or other conditions. The development of inclusive schools is a crucial step in helping to change discriminatory attitudes, creating welcoming communities and developing an inclusive society."

This is a day to not only celebrate the wonderful initiatives that have been launched in achieving an equitable schooling environment, but to also re-affirm our commitment to creating and sustaining equal opportunities for education and development amongst students with disabilities. Schools should be acknowledging this day through a variety of activities that promote learning and understanding among students and staff.

The Equity Department would like to take this opportunity to extend its respect and commitment to students who continually face challenges due to their disabilities and their struggle to overcome them.

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women was established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada and coincides with the anniversary of the death of 14 young women who were tragically killed on December 6, 1989 at Ecole Polytechnique in Montreal because of their gender.

This day offers us an opportunity to pause and reflect the negative impact caused by violence against women within our society and to commemorate the lives lost through gender-based discrimination and aggression. It also a time to re-commit ourselves to the following principles established by the Ministers Responsible for the Status of Women:

• Living free from violence is a right, not a privilege.
• Violence against women is a crime and should never be considered a private matter.
• Safety for victims and survivors must come first.
• In order to eliminate violence against women, equality and healthy relationships among boys and girls must be promoted from an early age.

Today we are once again provided with the opportunity to reflect on the important role that we play as educators in assisting in the transformation of unhealthy societal attitudes and practices through concrete initiatives within our classrooms.

Hanukkah, the Jewish "Festival of Lights," also known as the 'Feat of Dedication," begins at sunset on Sunday, December 9.

In Judaism, Hanukkah is celebrated for eight days to commemorate the victory of Judah the Maccabee for religious freedom and rededication of the Temple in 165 B.C.E. and to celebrate the power of God and the faithfulness of Israel.

During the celebration, the eight candles of the menorah, the Hanukkah lamp, are lit one day at a time. Card-playing is traditionally associated with the festival, as is spinning the dreidel (a spinning top). (Source: Mulitifaith Calendar) Schools will be acknowledging the festival through a variety of activities that promote learning and understanding for all students.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing students, staff and members of the community who will be lighting the menorah in the their homes a joyful time of sharing.

Eid-Ul-Fitr falls on the first day of Shawwal, the 10^th month of the Muslim calendar, and marks the end of the month of Ramadan. On this day, Muslims who had been observing Ramadan break the fast and celebrate its conclusion.

The day traditionally begins early with a prayer ceremony at the community mosque. Since this is a day to celebrate the renewal of one's commitment to Islam, people may wear new clothes as a symbol of fresh beginnings. Families typically visit one another and exchange good wishes, hugs and handshakes and homes are often decorated to reflect the festive atmosphere of this special day.

On this festive and meaningful occasion for many members of the Islamic community, The Equity Department joins you in wishing staff, students and parents a happy celebration.

December 25 is Christmas for most Christians in the West. Some Orthodox Churches, such as the Ukrainian Church, follow the Julian calendar and will celebrate Christmas on January 7.

For Christians, Christmas is a joyous religious celebration of the birth of Jesus. Most Christians recognize Jesus of Nazareth as the Messiah, the Son of God, and accept him as their Saviour and Lord. Western Christianity celebrates Christmas on December 25 following the Gregorian Calendar. Some followers of Eastern Christian churches follow the Julian Calendar and celebrate Christmas in early January. Christmas has a long tradition of gift giving which originates with the New Testament account of the Three Wise Men bearing gifts to the newborn baby. Many Christians acknowledge this aspect of Christmas on January 6^th, or the Day of the Three Kings. Christmas has also become a secular holiday enjoyed by many non-Christians. Many celebrate Christmas by exchanging gifts, singing, visiting with family and friends, and attending services in Church.

Christmas absorbed the festive atmosphere of the Roman Saturnalia and other pagan festivals it replaced. It was quite some time before the tradition of Santa Claus spread to North America. The tradition of Santa Claus is based on a real person; a bishop named Nicholas who gave gifts to children and to people living in poverty. St. Nicholas's feast day is December 6^th, which is why it has become, for many, associated with Christmas.

Adapted from Ada, A.F., Harris, V.J., & Hopkins, L.B. (1993) A Chorus of Cultures: Developing Literacy Through Multicultural Poetry.

Schools should be acknowledging this day through activities that promote learning and understanding for all students.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing Christian students, staff and members of the community who will be celebrating Christmas a joyful time of sharing.

Kwanzaa is a cultural observance created in 1966 to celebrate African-inspired traditional values and African American ancestry and heritage. Kwanzaa ("first fruits of the harvest" in Swahili) is being observed by increasing numbers of African Canadian families.

On each day of the week during Kwanzaa, a candle is lit in a seven-branched candelabrum called a kinara, to represent one of the seven principles celebrated during Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Children often receive educational and cultural gifts, and the week may end with a great feast - the Kwanzaa Karamu- followed by dance, music and readings. (adapted from A Chorus of Cultures: Developing Literacy Through Muliticultural Poetry, by Alma Flor Ada, Violet J. Harris & Lee Bennett Hopkins)

Schools should be acknowledging this week through activities that promote understanding and learning for all students.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing students, staff and members of the community who will be celebrating Kwanzaa a joyful time of celebration.

January 1^st marks the New Year in the Gregorian calendar, and is celebrated by many communities world-wide and in Toronto.

Korean New Year was originally a lunar festival, called Sol-nal, held at the beginning of the second new moon after the winter solstice (December 21 or 22). Nowadays, New Year's is often celebrated on the solar new year, January 1^st. Many Korean families use this day to honor ancestors, have special food, and play traditional games.

Oshogatsu (January 1-3) is an important festival for many Japanese people. Some gather with friends and families to say good-bye to the old year at forgetting parties. They also say hello to the new year. Many Japanese, some of whom practice Shintoism, welcome in the New Year with prayers for renewal of hearts, good health, and prosperity.

In North America, January 1^st has become a day for Buddhists of all schools to attend a special service in the local temple.

For many people, New Year's Eve is a secular holiday and has become an occasion for lively celebrations and the making of personal resolutions or promises to do something. The customs of banging pots and pans, ringing bells, beating drums, building bonfires, setting off fireworks, and making loud noises first started when people believed that dead spirits came back on New Year's Eve. People made as much noise as they could to frighten evil spirits away. For many it has now become a joyous night to celebrate, count down to midnight, and toast the New Year.

The United Nations has recognized the year 2002 as the International Year or Ecotourism and the International Year of the Mountain.

The Equity Department extends its best wishes to staff, students and members of the community who will be celebrating the New Year.

(Adapted from B. Dumoulin & S. Sikundar , Celebrating Our Cultures: Language arts activities for classroom teachers. 1998. p. 51, 55 and from the Multifaith Calendar 2002)

January 5 marks the birthday of the tenth and last guru within the Sikh tradition.

Guru Gobind is recognized as the "saint/soldier" and poet who fought against oppression by infusing a martial spirit in people through soul-inspiring heroic poetry. He founded the "Khalsa" order within the Sikh tradition that sought to bring justice and equality to mankind through selfless service.

Birth anniversaries of the ten gurus are observed with a great deal of devotion and enthusiasm and this is especially the case for the birthdays of the first and last gurus, as these days are often celebrated as festivals. The festivities typically last for three days. On the first day, a large procession is organized that is led by the Panj Piyaras (Five beloved ones) and the Palki (icon) of Guru Gobind. One the following day, devotional hymns are traditionally sung and there may be a katha (religious discourse) or Sikh historical lecture scheduled. A free langar (luncheon) is then usually served where everyone gathers together in a spirit of sharing and community.

The Equity Department extends its best wishes to staff, students and members of the Sikh community who will be celebrating this festive occasion.

Monday, January 21 marks the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., also known as "Martin's Day."

Although deemed an American holiday, and celebrated most widely in the United States, this day is marked by many around the world who wish to acknowledge the global significance and impact of Dr. King's work as a civil rights leader.

In his famous speech delivered on the steps at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. on August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. articulated his vision of a more just society. It included the following words:

"I say to you today, my friends, that in spite of the difficulties and frustrations of the moment, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that al men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that on day even in the state of Mississippi, a desert state, sweltering with the heat of injustice and oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four children will one day live in nation where they will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today...."

Schools will be celebrating the work of this great man through a variety of activities that help create a world in which all human beings are free and equal in dignity and in rights.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing your students, staff, and members of the community a meaningful day of celebration.

Today marks the Lunar New Year for members of the Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities.

This year, Lunar New Year is celebrated on Tuesday, February 12. Lunar New Year is a cultural and religious celebration for many Chinese, Koreans, and Vietnamese. This is the year of the Horse. People born in 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954, 1942 and 1930 were also born "Horses."

Many rituals are associated with this festive occasion. They include cleaning house, paying off debts, settling old arguments, and other means of making a "fresh start." To celebrate, people may light firecrackers, hang poetry, enjoy a family feast (oranges and apples are considered lucky fruits), exchange gifts (adults may give children laisee, red envelopes filled with money), and buy new clothes or new shoes.

Schools will acknowledge this occasion through various activities that promote sharing and understanding.

The Equity Department wishes all staff, students and community celebrating Lunar New Year a happy and joyful celebration in the company of family and friends.

Eid-Ul-Adha is celebrated in Thul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. This is known as a sacred month within the community, as it marks the month of the Hajj or Pilgrimage, an important act of worship for Muslims where up to 3 million people travel to Mecca and perform the pilgrimage together.

During Eid-Ul-Adha, which lasts for four days, Muslims remember the story of Abraham and Isaac and how they restored the Ka'ba in Mecca - the original place of worship for Muslims. Those performing the Hajj have returned for Eid-Ul-Adha, where they traditionally proceed to slaughter a lamb or other suitable animal. The meat is then usually divided into thirds with 1/3 given to those in need, 1/3 given to neighbours and friends, and 1/3 stays with the family. The celebrations typically involve visiting friends and family and sharing in a festive atmosphere.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing staff, students and members of the Islamic community, a very happy holiday.

March 8^th marks International Women's Day (IWD).

The first International Women's Day was in 1911, but the day became one of activism years earlier. Historians believe that it emerged from the labour strikes in the 1850s of female textile workers in New York City who protested against inhumane working conditions, the 12-hour workday, and low wages. Although police attacked and dispersed the women, they went on to form their first union. On March 8, 1908, 15 000 women marched in New York City, demanding shorter hours, better pay, voting rights, and an end to child labour.

Millions of women and men around the world mark International Women's Day each year. Rallies, marches, fairs, receptions, films, shows, and debates are held around the world to celebrate the achievement of women.

Many schools will see this day as an ideal opportunity to reflect on the progress made to advance women's equality, to assess the challenges facing girls and women, to look at ways to improve life conditions, to demand rights and, of course, to celebrate the gains made.

Naw Ruz ("New Day") is the Baha'i and Iranian new year, which falls on the date of the vernal (spring) equinox and symbolizes the renewal of the world after winter.

For most Iranians, Naw Ruz is the first day of Farvardin, the first month of the Iranian solar year. Since ancient times, it has been the great national holiday of Iran, the only holiday celebrated by more than one religious group. During this day people join in making a fresh start, full of joy and hope for the coming year. Families and friends may gather at a celebratory dinner wearing new clothes and offering gifts to the children present. The table is decorated with fruit, coloured eggs, sweets, as well as symbolic objects such as a holy book and a mirror.

The festival embodies a wealth of ancient rites and customs, and is part of the traditions of various groups. Naw Ruz is celebrated wherever Iranian culture has spread, particularly among the Zoroastrians of India, as well as amongst some of the peoples of Afghanistan, India, Syria, and Turkey.

For people of the Baha'i faith, Naw Ruz is the "Day of God." Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i tradition, declared this day to be one of feasting following a religious fast. Naw Ruz is one of the nine Baha'i holy days on which work is to suspended. The day is often marked by prayer and celebration. (Source: John Walbridge)

The Equity Department extends best wishes to all staff, students, and community members celebrating Naw Ruz.

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, March 21, commemorates the anniversary of the Sharpeville Massacre. Forty-one years ago in South Africa, peaceful demonstrators against apartheid were killed. In 1966, the United Nations declared that each year on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination should be observed as a symbol of the worldwide need to end racism.

Canada is a country to be proud of. But our pride is diminished when we do not use our individual and collective voices to oppose racism. March 21^st reminds us, particularly in our role as educators, to recommit ourselves to the struggle against racial discrimination in the sincere hope of creating a just society where every human being's dignity is affirmed through fair and equitable treatment.

This year, Holi, the Hindu "Festival of Colours," is being celebrated on Thursday, March 28.

Holi is an important annual Hindu festival celebrating the beginning of spring.

There are quite a few diverse accounts as to the mythical origins of Holi, but it is primarily considered both a festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil and devotion over ambition, as well as a rural and agricultural festival of fertility.

Holi is traditionally known as the "festival of colour" because the sprinkling of coloured powder (called abeer or gulal) is a major component of the celebrations. Water balloons containing gulal are tossed at friends and neighbours in the spirit of fun, and Indian drums (dhola) and songs often accompany the festivities.

Holi is a Hindu festival that is usually celebrated with a great deal of zest and verve, as it is a time to remember the brightness and splendour of living, and a time to spread joy, colour and love.

Best wishes for a festive and happy Holi from the Equity Department.

Passover or Pesah, the Jewish Festival of Unleavened Bread (Mazzah), commemorates the departure of the Israelites from Egypt. It is celebrated for eight days with special prayers and symbolic foods at home. It is a "festival of freedom" to remind Jews of how God released their ancestors from slavery and brought them to freedom in a Promised Land. Passover begins at sundown on March 28.

Passover is celebrated by more Jews than any other holiday on the Jewish calendar - perhaps because it is so essentially and uniquely a family holiday. The seder (SAY-der) -- the traditional meal held on the first night of this eight day holiday -- is often attended by complete extended families. Also, because charity and community are such important elements of the holiday, it is common for families to invite to their seder people who, for whatever reason, are not able to have one of their own.

The Equity Department takes this opportunity to acknowledge that many students, staff, and community will be observing Passover. We also would like to remind schools of the opportunity to inform students of other faiths about the history and meaning of this observance.

Christianity observes its most important holidays of the year between March 29-31 for the Western calendar and April 5-7 for adherents of the Julian calendar.

Holy Thursday commemorates the institution of the Lord's Supper by Jesus prior to his arrest, Good Friday his submission to death by crucifixion, and Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus. Easter is considered to be the oldest and most important festival in the Christian year, as the story of the death and resurrection of Jesus is meant to renew a Christian's commitment to living a life of truth, justice and love.

Many Christians will mark Easter by attending Church services over the weekend, and for some, this includes a midnight mass and candlelight vigil on Saturday. Families often gather together for dinner on Sunday to celebrate the resurrection.

The symbols that are associated with the holiday in North America are taken from ancient roots. In fact, the word "Easter" derives from the Anglo-Saxon spring goddess known as "Eostre." The custom of dyeing eggs, symbols of new life, goes back to the ancient Egyptians, Persians and Romans. These popular symbols, however, are by no means common to all Christian peoples. In addition, many of these customs and symbols have counterparts in non-Christian celebrations of spring. (Adapted in part from A Chorus of Cultures: Developing Literacy Through Multicultural Poetry, by Alma Flor Ada, Violet J. Harris & Lee Bennett Hopkins.)

The Equity Department takes this opportunity to acknowledge that many students, staff and community will be observing Easter and Passover. We also would like to remind schools of this opportunity to inform students of other faiths about the history and meaning of these observances for Christians and Jews.

Baisaki, the Sikh New Year, is celebrated in April every year. Baisaki is also celebrated in some other parts of India, particularly in some of the northern and eastern states.

For Sikhs, Baisaki celebrates the birth of the Panth Khalsa order (the Order of the Pure Ones) established by Guru Gobind Singh. It is at this time that Guru Gobind Singh gave the Khalsa order the five distinct symbols of purity and courage which would make Sikhs identifiable: the Kesh (unshorn hair); Kangha (the wooden comb); Karra (the iron bracelet); Kirpan (the sword); and Kachera (underclothing).

Some of the ways that this day is traditionally honoured include visiting a place of worship, participating in a mela (fair), indulging in mithai (sweets), fruits and lassi (a sweet yogurt drink), and taking a ritual bath of renewal.

The Equity Department extends good wishes to all staff, students and members of the Sikh and Indian communities who will be celebrating Baisaki.

Wesak, the most important festival of the year for the Buddhist community, is the observance that commemorates the birth, Enlightenment and Final Nirvana of the Buddha. Wesak falls on the full moon day of the fifth month of the year. This year Wesak falls on April 27.

It is said that during the full moon of Taurus, Buddha descends from his high place to bestow spiritual blessings on the world. It is thought that at this time, great expansions of consciousness which are not possible at other times become possible, and that energies are transmitted that assist humanity in taking the next steps on the path of spiritual growth.

Wesak is celebrated in a number of ways around the world. There is often the ceremonial release of small creatures, such as birds or turtles, as a symbol of the Buddha's compassion for all things. A statue of the baby Buddha may be bathed in a ritual commemorating his birth. Dharma talks are given, often on the eight precepts (teachings of Buddhism), since this ceremony is intended to reflect on the life of the Buddha and the goal for all of enlightenment. Sitting and/or walking meditation may be a part of the festivities as well. Traditionally, vegetarian meals are served. In the evening, candlelight or lantern processionals end the celebration.

This occasion is observed by millions of Buddhists throughout the world. Schools may wish to acknowledge this day through activities that promote understanding and learning for all students.

The Equity Department joins you and the followers of Buddhism in your school community in acknowledging this special day of enlightenment.

Around the world, one person is killed on the job every 30 seconds. The Day of Mourning is an annual day of remembrance for workers who have been killed or injured on the job in Canada. The aim of this day is to publicly renew the commitment to fight for the safety of the living as well as mourn for those workers who have died.

On December 28, 1990, the government passed the Workers Mourning Day Act, which established an official day observed every year to commemorate workers injured on the job, killed, disabled, or who suffer from occupational illnesses. This day is also intended to show Canadians' concern for occupational health and safety. April 28 was chosen for this observance since the first comprehensive Workers' Compensation Act was passed in the province of Ontario. Although it all began in Canada, the Day of Mourning is now commemorated in more than 70 countries world-wide.

Many schools use this day as an opportunity to do some labour education. The Equity Department would like to join in this day of commemoration with students, staff, and parent communities across the TDSB.

May 3-5 marks the celebration of Easter for adherents of the Gregorian calendar.

Many of the traditions that bond generations together in the Orthodox tradition occur during the celebration of Easter. One of the most prominent rituals of the Orthodox Easter is the forty-day Lenten fast, where no meat or dairy is eaten. The fast is typically broken on Sunday morning at 1 or 2 a.m. following the evening Church service where candles are lit and a celebratory hymn is sung in honour of the resurrection of Christ.

The Equity Department joins you in wishing a Happy Easter to all staff, students and community members who will celebrating Easter in the Orthodox tradition.

First Nations people created First Nations Day in 1982, a day of celebration that is seen by many to be an alternative to Victoria Day.

National Aboriginal Day was proclaimed in 1996 by former Governor General Romeo A. LeBlanc. The following is an excerpt of the text of the proclamation to make National Aboriginal Day an official day of celebration, recognized by the Crown.

WHEREAS the Constitution of Canada recognizes the existing rights of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada;

WHEREAS in the constitution of Canada "aboriginal peoples of Canada" include the Indian, Inuit and Metis peoples of Canada;

WHEREAS the Aboriginal peoples of Canada have made and continue to make valuable contributions to Canadian society and it is considered appropriate that there be, in each year, a date to mark and celebrate these contributions and to recognize the different cultures of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada;

AND WHEREAS many Aboriginal peoples celebrate the summer solstice, which has an important symbolism within their cultures;

THEREFORE, His Excellency the Governor General in Council, on the recommendation of the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, hereby directs that a proclamation do issue declaring June 21st of each year as "National Aboriginal Day".

National Aboriginal Day is an event that is growing in importance in Canada.

June 21, the summer solstice is the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and marks the changing of seasons. It is seen by many peoples to be a day of great symbolism.

Many schools will be acknowledging National Aboriginal Day and the Summer Solstice through activities that promote understanding and learning for all students.

The Equity Department wishes all the best to staff, students and community celebrating June 21st.

The Mayor and the City of Toronto will once again proclaim Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Week and raise the Rainbow flag at City Hall. Pride celebrations have been held annually around the world at the end of June for the last 30 years as an act of celebration, as well as an act of resistance against discrimination and oppression. This is a period of significance to the many TDSB parents, students and staff associated with this diverse community.

Many schools and workplaces in the city will be making mention of this celebration in announcements and activities that recognize lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities and promote understanding and learning for all.

The Equity Department wishes all the best to staff, students and community celebrating Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Week.