Celebrating Diversity

Senior Services Honors Senior Citizens and Their Quality of Life

As the year draws to a close, December invites us to reflect on the richness of our diverse traditions and the beauty of coming together. This month, we honor a variety of celebrations that bring light and warmth to the winter season, including Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and Winter Solstice.

At the Olympia Senior Center, we’re embracing the holiday spirit by hosting special holiday meals where everyone is welcome to share good food and meaningful connections. These gatherings celebrate not only the season but the diverse cultures, histories and stories that make our community unique.

This month, take time to explore and appreciate the traditions that shape the lives of those around you. From the glowing candles of Hanukkah to the vibrant colors of Kwanzaa, every celebration offers an opportunity to learn, connect and grow together.

No matter what you celebrate, December reminds us that our differences are our strength, and the holiday season is the perfect time to celebrate the shared humanity that unites us all.

Join us in making this December a season of love, understanding and celebration.

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November is:

Universal Human Rights Month

This month is intended to recognize the anniversary of the adoption by the United Nations General Assembly of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. This has become a month-long world wide recognition.

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World AIDS/HIV Awareness Month

Dedicated to increasing understanding, reducing stigma and supporting those affected by HIV and AIDS. It’s a time to reflect on progress in prevention and treatment while renewing our commitment to ending the epidemic. Together, we can promote awareness, compassion and hope for a healthier future.

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Advent (December 1 - 24)

Marking the beginning of the Christmas season in Christian traditions, Advent is a time of hope, reflection and anticipation. Spanning the four weeks before Christmas, it’s a period of spiritual preparation, symbolized by candles that represent love, joy, peace and hope.

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Holidays and Observances:

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December 1: World AIDS Day

A global day of solidarity to honor those affected by HIV and AIDS. It raises awareness, fights stigma and celebrates advancements in prevention, treatment and support.

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December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Raises awareness in regard to persons with disabilities in order to improve their lives and provide them with equal opportunity.

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December 8: Bodhi Day

Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama experienced enlightenment. Also known as Bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali.

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December 10: Human Rights Day

Commemorates the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and stands as a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations.

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December 16 - 24: Las Posadas

9-day celebration in Mexico commemorating the trials Mary and Joseph endured during their journey to Bethlehem.

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December 21: Winter Solstice

1^st day of winter.

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December 21 - January 1: Yule

Held the day after Thanksgiving, Native American Heritage Day recognizes and celebrates the rich history, cultural traditions and contributions of Indigenous peoples. It is a time for honoring the unique heritage and enduring strength of Native communities, fostering respect and appreciation for their place in American history.

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December 23: Festivus

Airing of grievances. Must have a Festivus pole.

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December 25: Christmas

Christians associate with Jesus’ birth.

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December 25 - January 2: Hanukkah

Hannukah or also referred to as Chanukah, is the Jewish eight-day festival of lights that honors the miraculous oil burning for eight nights. Beginning on the eve of Kislev 25, it continues for eight days and this year runs from Dec. 7 – Dec. 15. Those that celebrate the “festival of lights” are celebrating the rededication of the Holy Temple. In 175 B.C., the temple had been ransacked by King Antiochus who had made it illegal for those in present-day Israel to practice Judaism. Instead, King Antiochus wanted Jews to worship Greek gods; in 164 B.C., the Jews led by Judah the Maccabee defeated King Antiochus.

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December 26: Boxing Day

Boxing Day, in Great Britain and some Commonwealth countries, particularly Australia, Canada and New Zealand, is a holiday (December 26) on which servants, tradespeople and the poor traditionally were presented with gifts. By the 21st century it had become a day associated with shopping and sporting events.

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December 26 - January 1: Kwanzaa

Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that reflects the best of African thought and human dignity. Founded in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Karenga states that Kwanzaa is a practice of reaffirmation, and during this holiday, families and communities organize activities around the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles) including Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Celebrations include feasting, music, dance, poetry, narratives, and reflection.

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