May offers a meaningful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the diversity of our community and workplace. This month, we acknowledge several observances that reflect varied identities, experiences, and contributions. Join us in learning, reflecting, and showing appreciation throughout the month.
ALS Awareness Month
ALS Awareness Month, recognized nationally each May since a 1992 congressional designation, raises awareness of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis—a fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting motor function while cognition remains intact. The observance highlights research, caregiver support, veterans’ health equity, and the voices of people living with ALS, reinforcing a national commitment to visibility, dignity, and accelerated treatment discovery.
Haitian Heritage Month
Haitian Heritage Month celebrates Haiti’s vibrant culture, history, language, art, music, and cuisine, as well as the significant contributions of Haitian Americans in science, education, health care, and public service. Haitian Creole is one of the most widely spoken Creole languages in the world and is recognized as an official language of Haiti alongside French.
Indian Heritage Month
This celebration honors the traditions, values, and achievements of people of Indian descent, both globally and within the United States. Contributions span technology, medicine, academia, arts, and entrepreneurship. Many foundational concepts of modern mathematics, including the use of zero as a number, originated in ancient India.
Jewish American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month recognizes the enduring cultural, scientific, and civic contributions of Jewish Americans, while also acknowledging a history marked by resilience and community strength. Jewish American inventors have played key roles in innovations ranging from medical devices to early film and entertainment technology.
Mental Health Awareness Month
This month encourages open dialogue about mental well‑being, reduces stigma, and promotes access to support and resources. It reminds us that caring for mental health is essential to overall wellness and workplace belonging. Research shows that supportive workplaces significantly reduce stress and improve both mental health outcomes and job satisfaction.
National Asian American and South Pacific Islander Heritage Month
This observance celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities. It also recognizes the diversity within these groups, shaped by migration, language, and tradition. The observance in May commemorates two milestones—the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the U.S. in May 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in May 1869, built largely by Chinese laborers.
Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month honors older adults for their lifetime of contributions while highlighting the value of intergenerational connection, lifelong learning, and healthy aging. Many people age 65 and older contribute extensively through volunteering and caregiving, providing billions of dollars’ worth of unpaid service each year.
Together, these observances remind us that our workplace is enriched by a wide range of lived experiences, identities, and perspectives. We encourage everyone to take time this month to learn, listen, and celebrate—helping to create a culture where everyone feels seen, respected, and valued.