Disclaimer: The resources provided on this website are meant to educate the user on various DEIA-related topics; they are not to be interpreted as a directive from or policy of the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Always consult with your department’s leadership, human resource office, and/or in-house counsel before adopting any of the ideas expressed on this website. Many resources link to third-party websites that CalHR does not control. CalHR is not responsible for the contents of any third-party sites, links in third-party sites, or any changes or updates to third-party sites.
Purpose: The virtual backgrounds raise awareness about the diversity of the Californians that we serve, including important cultural celebrations and historical events with great impact. They are also a tool for supporting an inclusive workplace and engagement with California’s diverse communities. CalHR will add virtual backgrounds monthly. So, check this page and the archives. If you have a virtual background to share, see the DEIA Virtual Background Submission Guidelines below. For additional virtual backgrounds, visit the Employee Recognition Toolkit. We hope you enjoy this month's offerings!
New 11/1/2024
Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor Indigenous peoples. It is a time to celebrate their rich cultures, traditions, and contributions. This year's theme is "Advancing Leaders Through Innovation." It means supporting Native American leaders with new ideas to improve their communities.
Innovation is important. It helps solve problems in new, better ways. When Native American leaders act on their ideas, they can make their communities stronger and inspire others. They use their culture and traditions to create new, forward-looking ideas. They respect the past but also seek the future.
We should support Native American leaders. Their wisdom and creativity can teach us. It's a chance for everyone to grow and build a better future together. We must respect the unique history and heritage Native Americans bring to our world.
One important law connected to Native American heritage is AB 923. It requires California state officials to train in tribal consultations. This training, from the Governor's Office of Tribal Affairs and CalHR, is for those who can represent the state in conversations with Native American tribes. This free online training is required for anyone who can represent the State of California in meetings with tribal governments. It is for the Governor, Attorney General, and other key officials. Click the link to register: calhr.geniussis.com/FERegistration.aspx.
Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is a special holiday. It's celebrated worldwide. Millions of people, especially in India, celebrate this festival. Diwali is celebrated for five days. During this time, homes are lit with diyas and small oil lamps. They often draw rangoli on the floor to attract good luck.
Diwali is a festival to celebrate the triumph of light and goodness over darkness and evil. Families pray, exchange gifts, and share sweets. They also clean and organize their homes to welcome fresh energy. Fireworks add to the brightness and beauty of the occasion.
This holiday teaches us the importance of kindness, love, and the hope that there is always light ahead, even in tough times. It's a reminder that we can overcome any challenges with family, friends, and faith. This year, Diwali starts on October 31. This holiday is based on the Hindu lunar calendar, which is dependent on the moon's position. As a result, this holiday tends to fall on different dates each year.
On November 20, Transgender Day of Awareness (TDoA) helps people learn about transgender issues. It honors transgender people who have faced violence. It also celebrates those who are transgender or don't follow traditional gender roles. This day also honors Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. TDoA is a time to learn and remember the lost. It's also a time to support the LGBTQ+ community. It is recognized worldwide, just like other events like Pride Month. Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDoR) is different. It honors victims of anti-trans violence. TDoA is important for supporting transgender people and raising awareness of the challenges they face.
Resources for Native American Heritage Month:
National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)
30 Best Native American Podcasts You Must Follow in 2024
40 Best Native American Authors to Read in 2024
Federally Recognized Indian tribes and Resources for Native Americans
Home - PWNA (nativepartnership.org)
National Museum of the American Indian
Tribes | First Nations Development Institute
Native American Genealogy Records Online
Native America Today | Native American News
Native Americans | U.S. Department of the Interior
Resources for Diwali:
Diwali Festival of Lights
When is Diwali 2024: Date, timings, history and more
HAF's Diwali Toolkit - Hindu American Foundation
Diwali, the Festival of Lights, explained | CNN
Diwali - National Museum of Asian Art
7 Picture Books to Celebrate Diwali
The Importance of Diwali in 5 Artworks
Resources for TDoA:
Transgender Day of Remembrance | GLAAD
HRC | Resources
Transgender Rights | American Civil Liberties Union (aclu.org)
Transforming Hate to Love
Rita Hester: 25 Years Later, Her Family Still Seeks Closure
30 Inspiring Transgender Books (by Trans Authors)
