September 2025 Diversity and Inclusion Calendar: Key Dates
What Employers Need to Know About September 2025 DEI Dates
Labor Day - September 1
Labor Day is a statutory holiday in both Canada and the United States. Its roots trace back to labour movements of the late 19th century, when workers organized for better conditions and recognition. In 1882, labour leader Peter J. McGuire led celebrations in both Toronto and New York City. By 1894, both countries formally recognized the day.
While Labor Day began with activism, it has since become a day of rest and community. Consider using this day to thank your team for their hard work and dedication.
Mawlid - September 4–5
Mawlid al-Nabi marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad and is one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar. Observances include street carnivals, poetry readings, and shared meals.
World Suicide Prevention Day - September 10
World Suicide Prevention Day day raises awareness about suicide prevention and mental health. Suicide is a global issue—and one often surrounded by stigma.
How to Support at Work:
Share mental health resources on your intranet or office bulletin
Maintain an open door policy that normalizes regular check-ins
Educate your team with relevant support contacts and training
DID YOU KNOW: Men's suicide rates are nearly double those of women—a statistic often referred to as a “silent crisis.”
Hispanic Heritage Month - September 15–October 15
This month-long observance recognizes the contributions of Hispanic and Latin communities in Canada and the U.S. It began as a week in 1968 and now spans 30 days starting on September 15.
Resources for Inclusion and Professional Development:
Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Culture
National Hispanic Latino Association of the Deaf
International Equal Pay Day - September 18
Equal Pay Day highlights the persistent gender wage gap, which disproportionately affects Black women, Indigenous women, and LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
How to Support at Work:
Prioritize inclusive job ads
Rosh Hashanah - September 22–24
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time of reflection and celebration that marks the beginning of the Days of Awe.
Bi Visibility Day - September 23
Bi Visibility Day recognizes bisexual individuals and their contributions to the LGBTQIA2S+ community. Bisexuality often faces invalidation and erasure, even within queer spaces.
To support Bi Visibility Day in the workplace, start by fostering a culture of inclusion through education and open dialogue. A great first step is to read How to Welcome the LGBTQIA+ Community in Your Workplace, which offers actionable insights for creating a supportive environment for all LGBTQIA2+ employees, including those who identify as bisexual.
This resource is especially valuable for HR professionals and team leads looking to deepen their understanding of inclusive language, policies, and practices.
This 2SLGBTQI+ Glossary with your team can help clarify important terms and identities, promote respectful communication, and reduce unintentional bias or misunderstandings in everyday workplace interactions. These tools are simple but powerful ways to build a more informed, welcoming, and affirming workplace culture.
International Day of Sign Languages - September 23
Recognized by the UN, this day celebrates sign language and advocates for equal rights for the Deaf community. Over 70 million Deaf people use sign languages globally.
How to Support at Work:
Hire ASL interpreters for events
Use closed captions in all video meetings and training
Encourage inclusive communication habits
National Day for Truth & Reconciliation - September 30
Also known as Orange Shirt Day, National Day for Truth & Reconciliation honours the survivors and intergenerational impact of Canada’s residential school system. It’s a day of reflection, truth, and reconciliation.
How to Support at Work:
Provide education on Indigenous history
Review hiring practices for bias
Wear orange and acknowledge the significance: Every child matters
Creating an Inclusive Workplace in September 2025
Building an inclusive workplace isn’t a one-time effort. Whether you’re recognizing Labor Day or reflecting on the legacy of residential schools, the way we show up—through action, education, and policy—makes all the difference.
HireDiverse is a Canadian job board that prioritizes inclusion
We reach diverse candidates across Canada through intentional outreach and inclusive messaging. Posting with HireDiverse highlights your organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion — and helps your job stand out.
About HireDiverse
We’re Canada’s diversity and inclusion-focused job board. We reach diverse candidates across Canada through intentional outreach and inclusive messaging. Post jobs to highlight your organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
