Embracing Diversity During the November Holidays: Celebrating International Tolerance Day in the Workplace
By Marion Davis
As the holiday season approaches in November, many employers in the U.S. find themselves balancing traditional celebrations with the desire to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). While Thanksgiving is widely recognized as a day for giving thanks, it also carries a complicated legacy rooted in colonialism and its impacts on Indigenous peoples. This history may lead some organizations to reconsider how they celebrate the fall and winter holidays, seeking alternatives that align with these organizations’ commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity.
One potent alternative is International Tolerance Day, observed annually on November 16. This global event was established by the United Nations and offers an opportunity for companies to build cultural awareness and inclusivity without the weight of problematic histories. By shifting the focus toward celebrating tolerance, organizations can highlight their commitment to creating a welcoming environment where diverse perspectives are respected–even when these perspectives may differ significantly.
Embracing tolerance as a core value not only aligns with DEI goals but also leads to a workplace culture that values open dialogue and understanding. In fact, the importance of tolerance in creating spaces for free expression and diverse viewpoints was highlighted in a recent Inside Higher Ed opinion piece. The author notes that inclusion often seeks full appreciation and respect for all ideas. However, tolerance is a more practical and effective approach for promoting open inquiry as this concept acknowledges and accepts differing viewpoints even when they challenge people to step outside their comfort zones. This perspective aligns well with the essence of International Tolerance Day, making the holiday a fitting occasion for workplaces to engage in meaningful cultural reflection and dialogue.
As this article delves into the history and purpose of International Tolerance Day, it becomes clear that this observance is not just about passive acceptance via tolerance but rather active respect and appreciation for cultural differences with the goal of open dialogue. Organizations have a unique opportunity to incorporate this global holiday into their DEI initiatives, using the day as a platform to educate, engage, and advance a more inclusive workplace culture.
The History and Purpose of International Tolerance Day
International Tolerance Day was established by the United Nations in 1995, following the adoption of the UN Declaration of Principles on Tolerance. The day serves as a global reminder of the importance of respecting and appreciating the rich diversity that exists around the world. Tolerance, as defined by the UN, goes beyond passive acceptance. This concept calls for active respect and appreciation of cultural differences to combat discrimination and extremism around the world.
The creation of International Tolerance Day was particularly influenced by the tragic events of the Rwandan and Bosnian genocides where intolerance led to unimaginable human suffering. The UN recognized that promoting tolerance was essential to preventing such atrocities in the future. Today, the observance of this day serves as a reminder that peace and stability are built on the foundation of respect for human rights and diversity.
The day is marked by educational programs, discussions, and campaigns that promote tolerance, respect for diversity, and peaceful coexistence. Around the world, events such as Norway’s Universal Tolerance Cartoon Festival highlight creativity and education as key approaches to promoting tolerance. On a smaller scale, companies and local communities can choose to commemorate this day by raising awareness about the importance of tolerance in everyday interactions.
Why International Tolerance Day Matters for Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
For organizations committed to DEI, International Tolerance Day aligns adeptly with corporate goals. At its core, the day emphasizes the need for acceptance and respect of diversity. Addressing intolerance and discrimination is not just a societal issue; it also has a direct impact on workplace dynamics.
By observing International Tolerance Day, companies broaden the scope of their holiday celebrations, moving beyond traditional holidays that may not resonate with all employees. Celebrating lesser-known international holidays allows organizations to acknowledge global perspectives and embrace cultural sensitivity. This approach signals to employees from diverse backgrounds that their cultures and experiences are valued and respected.
Recognizing more recent holidays free of a troublesome past can encourage open conversations about global issues related to discrimination, prejudice, and extremism. This holiday promotes awareness about the importance of tolerance not just as a moral imperative but as a practical necessity for supporting inclusion in the workplace.
Five Ways Employers Can Celebrate International Tolerance Day
Observing International Tolerance Day in the workplace can take many forms, and companies can look to a range of options for building tolerance and acceptance.
Host Educational Programs or Webinars
Employers can organize webinars or workshops focused on cultural diversity and inclusion. These programs can cover topics such as the dangers of intolerance, the value of different cultural perspectives, and how employees can be more inclusive in their daily interactions.
Organize Panel Discussions or Roundtables
Employers can invite guest speakers–including diversity and inclusion experts–to participate in panel discussions on global issues related to tolerance, equity, and diversity. These conversations can encourage employees to reflect on their own experiences with intolerance and explore ways to promote inclusivity.
Encourage Team Activities
Employers can create team-building activities that allow employees to explore different cultures, traditions, and values. For example, a cultural exchange event would allow employees to share their heritage as a way to build cross-cultural understanding and respect.
Internal Campaigns Focused on Human Rights and Respect
Employers can launch internal campaigns that emphasize the importance of tolerance, respect, and peaceful coexistence. These initiatives can include newsletters, social media posts, or office displays highlighting the principles of International Tolerance Day.
Partner with Diversity and Inclusion Experts
Employers can bring in outside experts to offer employees fresh perspectives on how to promote inclusivity and combat intolerance. Workshops or guest lectures from professionals in the field can be impactful ways to deepen understanding and inspire action.
Benefits of Celebrating International Tolerance Day and Impact on Workplace Culture
Recognizing International Tolerance Day offers numerous benefits for workplace culture, particularly in organizations with a diverse workforce. Celebrating this day helps develop a sense of belonging among employees, making individuals feel valued for their unique backgrounds and perspectives. This inclusivity strengthens team dynamics and creates a work environment where everyone feels respected.
Educational events around tolerance can help reduce unconscious bias. By raising awareness of different cultural perspectives, employees are more likely to approach their interactions with each other with empathy and understanding. Conversations about diversity and inclusion also encourage a deeper dialogue about what it means to be tolerant, creating a culture of openness and mutual respect.
The long-term impact of promoting tolerance goes beyond improved workplace relationships and can also influence organizational revenue and success. A workplace that embraces diversity and inclusion is often more innovative as diverse viewpoints lead to creative problem-solving due to the wide range of perspectives present. Furthermore, employees who feel valued and included are more engaged, satisfied, and likely to stay with the company, leading to better retention and overall productivity.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating holidays like International Tolerance Day into your company’s DEI efforts is not only a way to celebrate inclusion but also an opportunity to promote cultural understanding. By observing this global holiday, organizations can highlight their commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees. Lesser-known holidays provide the chance to broaden the scope of celebration and allow companies to embrace global diversity in a way that resonates with modern values.
As you plan your company’s November events, consider how International Tolerance Day can be a part of your initiatives to build a more inclusive workplace. Start today by exploring ways to honor cultural understanding, promote tolerance, and ensure that your workplace is a space where everyone feels valued and respected.
Marion Davis is a contributing writer at EmployDiversity.com. She is a disabled DEIA consultant and writes on the value of diversity and inclusion across multiple industries, specifically as relates to disability and intersectionality.
