December is typically a time of twinkling lights, shared meals, and festive gatherings, but it’s also so much more than just a month of holidays. Rich with cultural and religious observances, December highlights the diversity that makes our workplaces dynamic and vibrant. While Christmas and Hanukkah may be the most widely recognized holidays amongst many, this month also brings celebrations like Kwanzaa, Bodhi Day, Yule, and the Winter Solstice, among others. This time of year presents an exciting opportunity for employers to foster inclusion, build equity, and celebrate diversity in meaningful ways.
But how can organizations navigate December’s festivities, while simultaneously ensuring all employees feel valued and included?
Here are five practical and impactful ways employers can embrace this season mindfully:
1. Expand the Holiday Calendar
Traditional workplace celebrations often focus on Christmas, leaving out many employees’ significant cultural and religious observances. Consider creating a company-wide cultural calendar that highlights holidays from diverse traditions. Note that this is not about erasing Christmas, but rather being open to the fact and celebrating that December is home to so many diverse holidays. Invite employees to contribute by sharing their important dates. This approach not only broadens awareness, but also fosters a sense of belonging.
- INSIGHT: A simple gesture like acknowledging Diwali in October or Ramadan in the spring shows that cultural and religious inclusion isn’t limited to December. Year-round awareness makes employees feel seen beyond seasonal recognition.
2. Foster Inclusive Celebrations
When planning holiday events, consider how to make them welcoming for everyone. Instead of a “Christmas Party,” why not host a “Winter Celebration” or “End-of-Year Gathering”? These terms are more inclusive and invite everyone to participate. Provide food and drink options that respect various dietary restrictions and offer a variety of music and decorations reflecting different cultures.
- ASK YOURSELF: Does your event feel like a true reflection of your team’s diversity, or does it center one particular tradition? Small changes in language and symbolism can make a big difference.
3. Promote Education and Awareness
Create opportunities for learning by organizing “holiday spotlight” sessions where employees can share their traditions. Whether it’s a short presentation during a team meeting or a dedicated Slack channel, these moments of cultural exchange foster understanding and respect.
- TO DO: Invite employees to share their holiday customs through stories, recipes, or virtual workshops. This peer-to-peer learning can deepen connections and break down cultural barriers.
4. Support Flexible Time Off
Not all employees celebrate holidays according to the standard Christian calendar that is most often observed in workplaces in Canada and the United States. Offering flexible time off allows individuals to observe their cultural or religious holidays, without feeling like they’re missing out on essential work benefits. This policy demonstrates respect for diverse practices and reinforces the organization’s commitment to equity.
- INSIGHT: Flexibility isn’t just about holiday leave. Encourage managers to accommodate employees’ needs, whether that’s adjusting schedules or recognizing that some may want to work on days that others are celebrating.
5. Reflect and Reassess Year-End Practices
Use December as a time to reflect on your organization’s DEI journey over the past year. Are your practices genuinely inclusive, or do they lean towards performative gestures? Solicit feedback from employees about how well the organization supports their diverse needs during holidays and beyond.
- ASK YOURSELF: How can we carry the spirit of inclusion into the new year? True DEI work is continuous, not seasonal.
The Bigger Picture
December’s richness lies not just in its holidays but in the stories, values, and histories they represent. Celebrating diversity is about more than decorating the office or sending out holiday cards – it’s about creating a culture where everyone feels their identity and traditions matter. By expanding our perspective on December’s significance, employers can foster a more inclusive, respectful, and vibrant workplace.
As we wrap up the year, let’s not just celebrate the season; let’s celebrate each other. In doing so, we set the stage for a more inclusive future – one where every employee feels they truly belong.
For Further Learning: 7 Strategies For Fostering DEI During The Holidays (Forbes)
Are you resolving to create a more inclusive workplace in 2025?
Wherever you’re at, we can help, with customized solutions tailored to your unique DEI journey. If you’re ready to learning more please reach out to us at hello@inclusivekind.com.