On August 1st of 1834, the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 went into effect across the British Empire, which at that time included what is now Canada. Emancipation Day was celebrated unofficially for almost 200 years before being formally recognized by the House of Commons in 2021.
Civic Holiday (Canada)
Monday, August 5
Enjoy the long August weekend, Toronto employees! (Don’t do anything we wouldn’t do.)
Purple Heart Day (US)
Wednesday, August 7
Purple Heart Day might be an unofficial holiday, but it is far from unimportant. The Purple Heart is awarded to American soldiers killed or wounded in action, and August 7th is a day to honor their sacrifice by listening, saying thanks, and giving back by donating to foundations serving veterans.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
Friday, August 9
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples exists to recognize the millions of unique indigenous cultures around the world. It is also a day of accountability for the human rights violations suffered by many indigenous people, and commitment to protecting cultures that were persecuted and suppressed by colonization.
Women’s Equality Day
Monday, August 26
In 1920, Congress ratified the 19th Amendment, the product of a decades-long civil rights movement which gave women the right to vote. In 1973, Women’s Equality Day was established to commemorate that great step towards equality and to draw attention to the areas where women’s rights are advancing today.
Safety Committe Meetings
Tuesday August 20, noon EDT (Atlanta) Wednesday July 31, noon PDT (San Diego) Wednesday August 21, noon MDT (Salt Lake City) Thursday August 15, noon EDT (Battle Creek) Thursday August 15, 11am EDT (Springfield)
Want to help the DG Safety Committee plan for 2025? Join the DG safety meetings. Want to join in? Contact Chris Klesse.