Multicultural Calendar
June Significant Observances
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National Indigenous History Month |
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June is National Indigenous History Month. First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples have stewarded the lands and waters in which the Region is located. Durham Region is committed to reconciliation and encourages everyone to learn about the rich and diverse Indigenous cultures and ancestral traditions that have long served many communities—not just in June but every day. Learn more about National Indigenous History Month. |
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Pride Month |
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June is recognized as Pride Month. During this month, we recognize and celebrate the unique and diverse 2SLGBTQI+ communities and recommit to creating equitable and inclusive spaces for everyone. Join Durham Region and community partners at Youth Pride Durham on June 17 at 1 p.m. |
| Seniors’ Month |
| June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario. During this month, we recognize the contributions of the seniors in our communities. This year’s theme is “Words of Wisdom.” Learn more about Seniors’ Month. |
| National Deafblind Awareness Month |
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National Deafblind Awareness Month in June raises awareness about individuals who experience both hearing and vision loss by highlighting the challenges faced by the deafblind community. The campaign aims to create a more accessible and inclusive society through education and advocacy. Learn more about National Deafblind Awareness Month. |
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Filipino Heritage Month |
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June is Filipino Heritage Month. Throughout this month we recognize and highlight the contributions of Canadians of Filipino heritage to the region and Canada. |
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World Environment Day – June 5 |
| World Environment Day is led by the United Nations Environment Programme and held annually on June 5. This year’s theme is “solutions to plastic pollution.” The theme signifies that people’s actions on plastic pollution matters and the need for each of us to help protect and restore our planet. Learn more about World Environment Day. |
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National Public Service Week – June 11 to 17 |
| The National Public Service Week: Serving Canadians Better Act, which was passed in 1992, led to the creation of National Public Service Week (NPSW). By giving internal acknowledgment and increasing public knowledge of the public service's quality, NPSW was created to foster pride in and recognition of Canada's public service. Learn more about National Public Service Week. |
| World Day Against Child Labour – June 12 |
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Eliminating child labour is a global priority. Each year on June 12 we recognize World Day Against Child Labour to raise awareness and champion equitable and safe places for children to reach their full potential away from hazardous, unpaid and domestic work. Learn more about World Day Against Child Labour. |
| Elder Abuse Awareness Day – June 15 |
| June 15 is Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder abuse is the abuse or mistreatment of seniors, and can cause harm to a person's health, safety or well-being. In some cases, it occurs with little recognition or response. We raise awareness about this issue and the need to protect elders in our communities. If you or someone you know is a victim of elder abuse, there are resources available through Durham Region that you can access. Learn more about Elder Abuse and how to access Regional supports. |
| World Refugee Day – June 20 |
| World Refugee Day is held on June 20 as a day to recognize and honour refugees everywhere. This year’s theme is “healing.” Learn more about World Refugee Day. |
| National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21 |
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June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. This day is an opportunity to learn, honour and celebrate the distinct heritage, cultural practices, traditions, languages and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. The Region of Durham exists on lands that the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg inhabited for thousands of years prior to European colonization. These lands are the traditional and treaty territories of the Nations covered under the Williams Treaties. Learn more about the traditional stewards of the land that Durham Region operates. |
| National Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Terrorism – June 23 |
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The National Day of Remembrance for Victims of Terrorism is observed on June 23 in memory of those who lost their lives to acts of terror in Canada and abroad. This day was established in recognition of the 329 people, including 280 Canadians, who tragically lost their lives after the bombing of Air India Flight 182. This act of violence remains the most devastating terrorist attack in Canadian history. In recognition of this day, Durham Region will lower the flags to half-mast from sunrise to sunset at all Regional facilities. |
| Saint-Jean Baptiste Day – June 24 |
| On June 24, Québécois and francophone communities celebrate Fête Nationale du Québec, formerly Saint-Jean Baptise Day. This holiday has evolved into a celebration of the distinctness of French culture and language. Learn more about Saint-Jean Baptiste Day. |
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International Day in Support of Victims of Torture – June 26 |
| Torture is a crime under international law. June 26 is designated by the UN as the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. This day is an opportunity to call on people everywhere to unite in support of victims. Learn more about International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. |
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Canadian Multiculturalism Day – June 27 |
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Canadian Multiculturalism Day is a day to discover the various cultures that bring Canadian society to life. It also provides an opportunity to learn more about the importance of multiculturalism in Canada. Who we are in terms of our cultural identity (i.e., race, religious affiliation, etc.) helps to shape our life experiences. Learn more about Canadian Multiculturalism Day. |
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Eid al-Adha – June 29 |
| June 29 marks the beginning of Eid al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice celebrated by millions of Muslims around the world. This is one of Islam’s most important holidays usually lasting three to four days and including prayer, spending time with family and participating in charitable activities. Learn more about Eid al-Adha. |
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