Celebrating Holidays and Diversity
It is important to acknowledge the diverse religious and cultural observances that occur throughout the year. This diversity of religious and cultural beliefs, like other forms of diversity, enriches our University community and the work and learning that occurs here. There are often questions on how to celebrate diversity while also being respectful of our individual differences. The display of religious symbols in private spaces, like the display of other personal objects in individual work areas, is permitted. In public spaces, promoting one religious practice or observance to the exclusion or diminution of others is inconsistent with the University’s status as a public institution and its commitment to inclusion. Regardless of what religion one practices or whether one practices none at all, please be mindful to demonstrate respect for those whose beliefs and practices may differ. Please contact the University of Minnesota Office for Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action should you have any questions.
Calendar of Holidays and Religious Observances
Below is a list of major Christian, Hindu, Islamic, and Jewish holidays and religious observances, and U.S. public (Federal) holidays for the next two academic years. This list is not exhaustive and observances are not necessarily days when individuals will not attend work or school.
The Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action encourages students, staff, and faculty to consult the calendar before scheduling events or exams. For more information on religious accommodations resources, please visit the EOAA website.
NOTES: Islamic holidays are based on the lunar calendar and will be celebrated approximately around the dates listed. Dates listed with the word "evening" generally begin and end at sundown on the respective days. Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath, is observed weekly from around sundown on Friday to around sundown on Saturday and is a time where one is to refrain from work and other activities.