The Department of Defense (DOD) celebrates eight ethnic observances annually in support of Joint Congressional Resolution, Presidential Proclamation, and achievements of all groups that comprise the society of the United States. Since 1968, the Department of Defense (DOD) has supported ethnic observances through the development of local programs of recognition and many diverse activities. Activities are designed to enhance cross-cultural awareness and promote harmony among all military members, their families, and the civilian work force. These activities are extensions of the equal opportunity education and training objectives. They are set aside to recognize the achievements and contributions made by members of specific minority groups, women, and individuals with disability in our society. The focus of the observance should be directed towards encouraging interaction and not just recognition. For local NDU observances, see the JBMHH Calendar of Special Observances 2021 Events (in-person events may be cancelled due to COVID).
Resources
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Observance
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Date
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Authorization
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Source
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2021 Theme / Link to Source
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Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday
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18 January 2021
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Public Law 98-144
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The King Center
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The Urgency of Creating the Beloved Community
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National African American/Black History Month
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1-28 February 2021
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Public Law 99-244
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Study of African American Life and History (ASALH)
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The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity
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Women’s History Month
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1-31 March 2021
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Public Law 100-9
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National Women’s History Alliance
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Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be Silenced
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Sexual Assault Awareness Month
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1-30 April 2021
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DoD Directive 6495.01
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Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO)
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Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission
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Holocaust Remembrance Day
Days of Remembrance
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8 April 2021
4-11 April 2021
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Public Law 96-388
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United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
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TBD
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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
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1-31 May 2021
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Title 36, U.S. Code, Section 102
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Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center
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TBD
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Pride Month
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1-30 2021
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Presidential proclamation (historically published the beginning of June)
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DoD Pride
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TBD
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Women’s Equality Day
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26 August 2021
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Joint Resolution of Congress, 1971 and Presidential Proclamation
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National Women’s History Alliance
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TBD
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National Hispanic Heritage Month
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15 September-14 October 2021
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Title 36, U.S. Code, Section 126
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National Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers
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TBD (currently accepting submissions for 2021 theme)
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National Disability Employment Awareness Month
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1-31 October 2021
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Title 36, U.S. Code, Section 121
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Department of Labor
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TBD
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National American Indian Heritage Month
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1-30 November 2021
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Public Law 102-188, Executive Order 13270 and Presidential Proclamation
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Society of American Indian Government Employees (SAIGE)
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TBD
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PLEASE NOTE: NDU lists only observances established by law, bill, or resolution of Congress or DoD Directive or Instruction. Organizations are reminded that special observances are conducted to recognize the continuous achievements of all Americans to American culture and to increase awareness, mutual respect, and understanding. They are designed to enhance cross-cultural and cross-gender awareness and promote harmony among all military members, their families, and the DOD civilian workforce. For more information about DoD special observance, please visit https://www.defenseculture.mil/