November 2025 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar: Key Dates
Recognizing November 2025 DEI Dates That Matter in Canadian Workplaces
As the days get shorter and we head into the final stretch of the year, November offers a powerful moment to pause, remember, and recommit to equity and inclusion in the workplace. This month includes observances that highlight cultural remembrance, honour military service, raise awareness about gender-based violence, and amplify the voices of transgender and Indigenous communities. Whether you’re reviewing your internal policies or looking for ways to spark meaningful conversations with your team, these dates are opportunities to reflect on what it means to support all employees—especially those from traditionally marginalized groups. Here’s what to mark in your calendar for a more inclusive November.
November brings important opportunities to reflect, honour, and support diverse communities at work. From remembrance and resilience to celebration and visibility, this month’s DEI observances call on employers to deepen their inclusion practices and workplace culture. Here are the key dates to note in your DEI calendar for November 2025.
Día de los Muertos - November 1–2
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant and sacred Mexican tradition held each year from November 1 to 2. It’s a time to remember and celebrate loved ones who have passed, starting with Día de los Angelitos (honouring children) and moving into Día de los Difuntos and Día de los Muertos (honouring adults and all the dead).
Ofrendas—altars with photos, flowers, food, and personal mementos—are set up in homes, and families gather at gravesites to welcome the spirits. It’s not a day of mourning but of love and remembrance.
How to Observe Día de los Muertos in the Workplace
Review your bereavement policy: Is it culturally inclusive? Use our Free DEI Policy Template
Respect sacred symbols: Avoid using sugar skulls or marigolds as casual décor—they hold deep spiritual meaning.
Native American Heritage Month - November 1–30
Observed in the U.S. every November, Native American Heritage Month recognizes the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It’s also a time to acknowledge historical injustices and support Indigenous voices today.
Originally proposed by Indigenous leaders and officially recognized in 1990, the month includes events, exhibitions, and educational campaigns across the U.S.
Remembrance Day - November 11
Observed on November 11 across Canada and the Commonwealth, Remembrance Day honours military members who have served and sacrificed in times of war and peace. It commemorates the end of World War I—on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
Red poppies are worn in memory, inspired by the iconic poem In Flanders Fields by Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae.
How to Acknowledge at Work
Offer a moment of silence
Share educational resources about Canada’s military history
Display poppies and allow for personal reflections
Transgender Day of Remembrance - November 20
This solemn observance honours transgender people who’ve lost their lives to anti-trans violence. It's also a call to action: trans communities face disproportionately high rates of discrimination and violence, yet continue to show strength and resilience.
How to Observe Transgender Day of Remembrance at Work
Inclusive policies: Review dress codes, parental leave, and healthcare benefits for trans inclusion
Normalize pronouns: Encourage pronoun use in email signatures and Zoom profiles
Offer training: Invest in LGBTQIA+ awareness training to educate your team
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women - November 25
Led by UN Women, this global day aims to raise awareness and inspire action to end gender-based violence. It marks the 1960 assassination of the Mirabal sisters, political activists in the Dominican Republic, and highlights the persistent threat of violence facing women worldwide.
How to Observe at Work
Donate or volunteer: Support organizations focused on women’s safety and support services
Create space: Listen and hold space for employees affected by violence—without judgment or pressure
Thanksgiving (U.S. Observance) - November 27
For teams with U.S. employees or cross-border offices, Thanksgiving is often celebrated with meals and gratitude. But it’s also an important time to examine colonial narratives and the harm they cause, especially to Indigenous communities.
Deepen Your Commitment to Inclusion
November gives us moments of remembrance, resistance, and reflection. It’s a powerful reminder that DEI in the workplace isn’t just a checklist—it’s a practice of listening, learning, and creating space for everyone to belong. Use this month to review your policies, amplify underrepresented voices, and continue building an inclusive workplace.
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