For Strength. For Community. For Change.
The YMCA remains committed to the ideals with which it was founded, love for neighbor, a welcome and safe haven for all, and a place where each person can experience growth and acceptance. As an inclusive, welcoming organization we will continue to champion those who need us most.
We have worked collaboratively with organizations and groups within our community to build connections and support them as we all join together to strengthen the fabric and foundation of our city, county and region. We are proud of that work but know that it is not nearly enough. We can do more. Organizationally we commit to actions which affirm and champion every person of color, race, gender, age, background, or ability. Join us as the YMCA will continue to be the organization with open, welcoming doors, compassionate and able staff inside, and the commitment to do great things together. We have put the shoes on our feet but it is a long road ahead, but together, we are confident that as we walk, we can do great things.
We invite you to join us in this journey as we work to strengthen commUNITY, by choosing kindness over hate. By speaking up and speaking out when injustice is present. What unites us will be stronger than what divides us. As part of our Y, our community needs you to stand together and support each other. We Must Do Better.
The Y is committed to learning more about how we can embolden our efforts to reduce health disparities in our marginalized communities.
The Y is committed to putting into practice what we learn and promoting a community of caring, racially conscious people.
The Y is committed to strengthening our partnerships with organizations and schools to unify our community for social justice for people of color.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Code of Conduct
What we say and how we behave matters. We must take responsibility for how our words and actions may affect others.
We ask you to:
All YMCA staff, volunteers, members, and program participants are expected to apply the DEI Code of Conduct uniformly in recognition of the impact words and actions have on others.
Our YMCA is stronger when we embrace the diversity of our community, both in and outside the Y. We are more effective when we offer valuable, inclusive experiences that provide equitable opportunities for people to serve, lead, and participate with us. As an organization committed to our mission of service for all, we become a stronger, more dynamic association when we prioritize DEI. With your support and participation, we are doing just that.
2026 Celebrations & Observances Calendar
The YMCA continues to be a place for everyone. To honor that we are sharing a calendar for holidays to highlight the multitude of cultures, faiths, and groups that exist in our community. While the list may not show every single holiday or observance, it is a great starting point to discover the wonderful cultures of our friends and neighbors.
Jan 4 | World Braille Day
World Braille Day is celebrated annually on January 4th to honor the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, the inventor of the tactile reading and writing system for the blind and visually impaired. Learn More About Braille
Jan 6 | Feast of the Epiphany
New Year’s Day marks the end of the holiday season for most people, but not for those celebrating Three Kings’ Day, or Dia de Los Reyes, as it is known in Spanish-speaking countries. Observed on January 6, the Christian feast day commemorates the day when the three wise men — Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar — arrived in Bethlehem bearing gifts for the newborn Jesus. Read More About the Feast of the Epiphany
Jan 7 | Coptic Orthodox Christmas
Coptic Orthodox Christmas is celebrated on January 7, correlating to the 29th day of Kiahk in the traditional Coptic calendar. It is the primary celebration of the Nativity for the Coptic Orthodox Church.
Jan 15 – 16 | Lailat al-Mi’raj
Sometimes translated as the Night of the Ascension, this event marks two significant moments in Islam: Isra (“Night Journey”), when the Prophet Muhammad was transported from Mecca to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, and then prayed with the other prophets; and Mi’raj (“Ladder” or “Ascension”), when Muhammad ascended into Heaven and spoke with God. Learn More about Lailat al-Mi’raj Source: Vanderbuilt University
Jan 18 | World Religion Day
World religion day was started by the Baháʼí community in 1950 to promote harmony and understanding among all faiths by highlighting shared spiritual principles. People celebrate by attending interfaith events, learning about other religions, and fostering dialogue to build a more unified world. Learn More About World Religion Day
Jan 19 | Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
Each year, the King Holiday Observance calls us to reflect, rejoice, and recommit, to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the transformative power of his vision. Learn more about Dr. King at thekingcenter.org The Spokane MLK Community Center is proud to host this annual MLK Day event: MLK Rally, March and Resource Fair
Jan 27 | Holocaust Remembrance Day
Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah) is observed by Jews around the world each spring. It is a day to remember and grieve for the 6 million of our people whose lives were taken by the Nazis and their collaborators before and during World War II. Visit Temple Beth Shalom’s website to learn more about the Spokane Community Observance of the Holocaust.
Black History Month
February marks Black History Month, an annual observance celebrating the achievements of Black Americans and recognizing their central role in U.S. history. From academics and civil rights activists to groundbreaking inventors, artists, and writers, Black Americans have left an enduring mark on our society. Check out the Spokane Public Library Blog for information, resources and local events.
Feb 13 – 21 | Carnival
The Brazil Carnival is celebrated preceding Ash Wednesday, which is the start of Lent in the Catholic calendar. At the heart of the Carnival is the samba, which is the perfect illustration of the Afro-European blend that defines Brazil culture. Noted for Samba schools performing in the streets, beautiful costumed dancers and music, carnival is a nationwide festival for all ages to enjoy.
Feb 17 | Lunar New Year
Sometimes called Chinese New Year in the United States, Lunar New Year is observed across Asia, including in Singapore, Vietnam, Korea, Tibet, and other countries. This holiday, honoring a new year based on the annual cycles of the moon, has different names across the globe, including Chunjie (China), Tet (Vietnam), Seollal (South Korea), and Losar (Tibet), among others. Learn More about Lunar New Year. On Feb 14: Celebrate in Spokane
Feb 18 | Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday marks the first day of the Lenten season. Lent is the liturgical time lasting 40 days before Easter when Catholics and Christians prepare to commemorate Jesus’s Resurrection through prayer, penance, and fasting. Learn More about Ash Wednesday.
Feb 20 | World day of Social Justice
Observed annually on February 20, the World Day of Social Justice highlights the importance of addressing global challenges such as poverty, exclusion, unemployment, gender inequality, and human rights. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007 (A/RES/62/10), this day advocates for social justice as a foundation for peace, equality, and sustainable development worldwide.
Feb 20 | National Caregivers Day
Around 1 in 5 Americans identify as family caregivers, yet only 56% of those caregivers say their workplace is aware of their caregiving responsibilities. National Caregivers Day, also known as Thank a Caregiver Day, is celebrated every February, on the third Friday of the month. Here at the Y we have a program in place: Powerful Tools For Caregivers – This highly effective, evidence-based, self-care educational program for family caregivers builds the skills needed to take better care of themselves as they provide care for others. Learn More about National Caregivers Day.
Feb 25 – Mar 3 | Festival of Ayyam-i-Ha
Ayyam-i-Ha is a Baha’i festival that is joyously celebrated in countries and territories all over the world. It is a time of hospitality, generosity, and caring for the needy. It typically falls around the end of February and beginning of March and it is either four or five days long. Learn More about Festival of Ayyam-i-Ha.
Women’s History Month
Every year, March is designated Women’s History Month by presidential proclamation. The month is set aside to honor women’s contributions in American history. Women’s History Month began as a local celebration in Santa Rosa, California. The Education Task Force of the Sonoma County (California) Commission on the Status of Women planned and executed a “Women’s History Week” celebration in 1978. The organizers selected the week of March 8 to correspond with International Women’s Day. The movement spread across the country as other communities initiated their own Women’s History Week celebrations the following year. Learn More about Women’s History Month
National Multiple Sclerosis Month
March is National Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Education and Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing public understanding of the chronic central nervous system disease, supporting patients, and promoting advocacy. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a progressive, lifelong illness that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord when the body’s own immune cells attack the layer of tissue, called myelin, that surrounds and protects the nerves and normally protects nerve cells.
Looking for a way to support MS research in our community? Checkout: Walk MS: Spokane 2026
National Developmental Disability Awareness Month
March has arrived, bringing with it the opportunity to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). Each year, this month serves as a time to promote awareness, inclusion, and the meaningful participation of people with developmental disabilities in every aspect of community life. This year’s theme — “We’re Here. Then, Now, Always.” — reminds us that people with developmental disabilities have always been, and will continue to be, integral members of our communities. Their presence, contributions, and voices shape our shared past, present, and future. Learn More about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Greek-American Heritage Month
Coinciding with Greece’s National Independence Day on March 25th this month-long celebration honors the contributions of Greek Americans and promotes awareness of their rich cultural heritage. Various events, lectures, and cultural exhibitions are organized nationwide, providing opportunities for both Greek Americans and the broader public to engage with and appreciate Greek culture. Learn about local Greek American Heritage at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church’s website.
Gender Equality Month
Gender Equality Month is celebrated every year in March. The whole month is dedicated to celebrating the social, political, cultural, and academic achievements of women in the world. March is also important to raise awareness against gender bias in society. Did you know that, according to United Nations Development Programme, almost 90% of men and women hold some kind of bias against women? This month is dedicated to eradicating those biases and teaching people the indispensable role of women in society.
Irish-American Heritage Month
During Irish-American Heritage Month the United States, Americans recognize the numerous contributions of Irish-Americans to the U.S. throughout the years. From the founding fathers to innovative transportation, arts and culture, Irish immigrants for generations left deep roots in the American landscape.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day | March 17
43rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade March 14: Held at noon in downtown Spokane near Riverfront Park.
Shamrock Shuffle March 15: A festive, Irish-themed run in Riverfront Park.
Mar 8 | International Women’s Day
The first National Women’s Day was observed in the United States in 1909, and in 1910, Denmark followed suit, sparking a movement across Europe. Momentum for recognition and equal rights continued building across the globe throughout World War I and World War II. In 1977, International Women’s Day was officially recognized by the United Nations. Since that recognition, the U.N. has hosted four women’s conferences, which have helped strengthen and centralize the international women’s movement. Learn More About International Women’s Day
Feb 14 – Mar 19 | Ramadan
Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims. In Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Qur’an, and fast from food and drink during the sunlit hours as a means of drawing closer to God and cultivating self-control, gratitude, and compassion for those less fortunate. Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion, during which Muslims spend extra time reading the Qur’an and performing special prayers. Learn More about Ramadan
Mar 21 | World Down Syndrome Awareness Day
Down syndrome occurs when an individual has an extra partial (or whole) copy of chromosome 21. It is not yet know why this syndrome occurs, but Down syndrome has always been a part of the human condition. It exists in all regions across the globe and commonly results in variable effects on learning styles, physical characteristics and health. Learn More About Down Syndrome
Mar 29 | Palm Sunday
Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christian communities celebrate Palm Sunday, marking the beginning of Holy Week, the most sacred time of year for Christians. Palm Sunday recalls the story in Christian Scripture of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, greeted by people waving palm branches. It is a reminder for Christians to welcome Jesus into their hearts and to be willing to follow him. The service on Palm Sunday also includes a reading of the Passion, the story of the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus.
Mar 31 | International Transgender Day of Visibility
This is a day to celebrate the joy and resilience of trans and non-binary people everywhere by elevating voices and experiences from these communities. By a general estimate, there are 3.3 million transgender adults across the United States. Trans, non-binary, and gender-expansive youth and adults are a part of every community. They are parents and family members. They are your coworkers, your neighbors and your friends. They are a diverse community, representing all racial and ethnic backgrounds as well as all faith traditions. Learn More about the resilience of trans and non-binary people.
Autism Acceptance Month
Autism Acceptance Month is observed every April and builds on decades of advocacy. It began in 1970 as Autism Awareness Month and, in 1988, gained national recognition through a presidential proclamation. In 2021, the shift to acceptance because autistic people have been clear about what helps: inclusion, respect, and practical supports. Words matter, but action matters more. True progress comes from creating a society where autistic people are fully valued and supported. Learn More about Autism Acceptance Month
Parkinson’s Awareness Month
Parkinson’s Awareness Month is the perfect time to brush up on your Parkinson’s facts. Here are 5 fast facts about Parkinson’s Disease:
Arab-American Heritage Month
Efforts to celebrate and honor Arab American heritage started decades ago. The first congressional resolutions date back to the 1980s, with one Joint Resolution proclaiming October 25, 1989, as “National Arab-American Day” in the 101st Congress that became law. The first resolution on the federal level to celebrate the Arab American community and officially declare April as Arab American Heritage Month (AAHM) came in April 2019. Learn More about Arab American heritage
Celebrate Diversity Month
As we celebrate Diversity Month, it’s important to remember that diversity is not just a buzzword, but a reality that affects us all. It’s a celebration of differences that help us to learn, grow and understand each other better. By embracing diversity, we can create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Diversity promotes inclusivity, understanding, and appreciation for different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. When we celebrate diversity, we recognize the value of each individual and acknowledge the contributions that people from different backgrounds can bring to our society. Read More about Diversity Month
Apr 1 – 9 | Passover
Passover (Pesach in Hebrew) is a major Jewish spring festival celebrating freedom and family as we remember the Exodus from Egypt more than 3,000 years ago. The main observances of this holiday center around a special home service called the seder, which includes a festive meal, the prohibition on eating chametz, and the eating of matzah. Learn More About Passover
Apr 10 | National Day of Silence
Started in the mid 90’s by two college students, Day of Silence was a nationally-recognized demonstration where LGBTQ+ students and allies all around the country protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools. Learn More about National Day Of Silence
Apr 22 | Earth Day
What Is Earth Day? Ever wonder how Earth Day began? The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970, when San Francisco activist John McConnell and Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson separately asked Americans to join in a grassroots demonstration. Dealing with dangerously serious issues concerning toxic drinking water, air pollution, and the effects of pesticides, an impressive 20 million Americans—10% of the population—ventured outdoors and protested together. Learn More about Earth Day
Asian Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month
In the month of May we take time to reflect and celebrate the important role that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) have played in our shared history. Mark your calendar to visit the ANHPI Heritage Festival on May 8 – 9 and experience cultural performances, family activities, ANHPI Food Trucks, Ho’olaule’a & Fire Knife Show, and more at this FREE family event. Stop by on Saturday and say hi to us at the YMCA booth! 😀
Jewish American Heritage Month
Each May, hundreds of organizations and Americans of all backgrounds join together to discover, explore, and celebrate the vibrant and varied American Jewish experience from the dawn of our nation to the present day. Discover More About Jewish Heritage
Mental Health Awareness Month
Healing happens in community — and this May, we’re building it together. Join NAMI Spokane all month long for a series of free and low-cost events across Spokane celebrating Behavioral Health Awareness Month. Find an event and come gather for good.
Haitian Heritage Month
Creole Resources is hosting the 2nd Annual Haitian Flag Day Heritage Celebration in Spokane on Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 3 – 6pm at the First Presbyterian Church of Spokane. This free community event features cultural performances, free food, and family activities, marking a significant celebration of Haitian culture and heritage in the area.
Older Americans Month
May is Older Americans Month, a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm our commitment to serving older adults. Learn More About Older Americans Month
Mark your calendars: May 27 the North Y will host National Senior Health & Fitness Day This special event is designed to connect and build relationships between local seniors and the organizations that serve this treasured community.
Did You Know? Each Y Branch hosts Senior Socials monthly. Check out our Active Older Adults page for details.
May 5 | Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo, meaning “the fifth of May,” is a holiday that celebrates the date of the Mexican army’s May 5, 1862, victory over France at the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. The day is also known as Battle of Puebla Day. Although it is a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, in the United States, Cinco de Mayo has evolved into a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in areas with large Mexican American populations. Learn More About the History of Cinco de Mayo
May 21 | Accessibility Awareness Day
Accessibility can be understood as providing people with disabilities the opportunity to acquire the same information, engage in the same interactions, and enjoy the same services as people without a disability in an equally integrated and effective way. DEI approaches accessibility with inclusive and equitable accommodations in the workplace. To help your peers achieve their goals, consider their ease of access, then work to remove any barriers. ✔️Check out The Core Principles of Disability Etiquette from The Diversity Movement (TDM) Library.
May 24 | Memorial Day
Memorial Day is an American holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May, and honors the men and women who sacrificed their lives while serving in the U.S. military. Learn More About the Origins of Memorial Day
Pride Month
Pride Month commemorates the Stonewall uprising, which began on June 28, 1969. Americans observe Pride Month with celebrations, reflection, and activism. Learn More about Pride
Immigrant Heritage Month
Immigrant Heritage Month aims to honor and recognize the contributions and diverse cultures of immigrants to the country. The designation of Immigrant Heritage Month began in 2014, when former President Barack Obama issued a presidential proclamation establishing June as National Immigrant Heritage Month.
This month-long celebration helps raise awareness about the importance of immigrants and fosters a more inclusive and diverse society. Read Correcting Myths About Immigration. This article dispels the most common myths many have about this diverse group. Source: The Diversity Movement – TDM Library
Caribbean American Heritage Month
Recognized each June, Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrates the unique culture and accomplishments of people from the Caribbean. Beginning with a Presidential Proclamation in 2006, the month honors the lasting contributions of Caribbean Americans – from Founding Father Alexander Hamilton to Vice President Kamala Harris. With a Caribbean American population of over 13 million, it is likely that our Y has a few Caribbean American employees. Read this article to learn more about the diverse background and culture of Caribbean Americans. Source: The Diversity Movement – TDM Library
June 2 | Native American Citizenship Day
June 2 marks Native American Citizenship Day, honoring the 1924 Indian Citizenship Act that granted U.S. citizenship to Native Americans. This day recognizes both this historic achievement and the continued efforts of Indigenous communities to secure equal voting rights, representation, and inclusion. It is also an opportunity to celebrate the rich cultures, contributions, and resilience of Native peoples across the nation. Read the article: Native American Citizenship Day: A Promise of Equal Rights and Representation Source: The Diversity Movement – TDM Library
June 12 | Loving Day
Loving Day is the anniversary of a historic court decision for interracial marriage. The “Loving” in Loving Day is actually the last name of Mildred and Richard Loving. The Loving Day Story begins when they were arrested for being married in 1958 because they were an interracial couple living in Virginia.
Their case, Loving v. Virginia (1967), reached the U.S. Supreme Court. Their lawyers argued that laws against interracial marriage came from slavery laws, intended to oppress Black people, and based on white supremacy. Other states had similar laws. Some of these laws applied to people of other races as well. Learn more at lovingday.org
June 14 | Race Unity Day
Each year on the second Sunday in June, Race Unity Day encourages people around the world to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and work toward a more inclusive society. Established in 1957 during a pivotal period in the American civil rights movement, the observance highlights the importance of overcoming racial prejudice and building stronger, more connected communities. Read Race Unity Day Celebrates Diversity and Peace This article explores the history of Race Unity Day, how it is celebrated, and ways organizations can recognize its message of unity and respect in the workplace. Source: The Diversity Movement – TDM Library
June 16 – 17 | Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year, which is the first day of the Islamic calendar, dates back to the migration of the Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in the year 622 C.E., which is known as the Hijra. The importance of this event is reflected in the fact that it marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar, rather than the birth of the Prophet Muhammad or the first Qur’anic revelation to him in 610 C.E. Learn more about Islamic New Year
June 19 | Juneteenth
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States on June 19, 1865. It is a day to honor African American freedom and achievement, while also encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. Check out carlmaxeycenter.org/juneteenth for info on Juneteenth and events in the Spokane area.
For Strength. For Community. For Change.
This is a call to action for our staff. To that end we have a dedicated DEI Committee of staff across our branches that work together to identify priorities that strengthen our community and advance our work to make the YMCA of the Inland Northwest an inclusive organization for all.
While the DEI Committee identified many priorities, it was important to choose 3-4 goals each year to ensure objectives are met. Here are this year’s goals:
Translation Services are a Priority
Overcoming language barriers can be challenging but with patience, effort, and the right strategies, it’s possible to effectively communicate across languages. Our Staff Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee identified translation services as a top priority in our work. To date, we have translated child care flyers, program flyers, our New Member Welcome Brochure and Youth Guidelines flyer into the following languages (identified as needed by our community): Arabic, Spanish, Russian and Ukrainian.
Here are some additional resources available to you:
Did you know our website is set up to translate the content into 17 different languages?
Check out the images below to get started or click here for instructions on how to select languages.
