News

This year, the holy month of Ramadan is to begin on Tuesday, February 17 – Thursday, March 19, 2026. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds great significance in the Islamic faith. It is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, self-reflection, and increased devotion to Allah. Historically, […]

During Black History month, we hope you have time to reflect on the many historical sacrifices and important contributions of Black Americans to our American way of life. Please see below for Black History Month events/activities being held at WashU and in the St. Louis community. We also provide links for reading and viewing to […]

Chinese New Year in 2026 is the Year of the Horse and is scheduled to start on Tuesday, Feb. 17, and last until the Lantern Festival on March 3, the date of the next full moon. It is the most important traditional festival in China. It marks the beginning of the new year on the traditional […]

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent. This day is marked by Mass, where ashes are placed on the foreheads of Christians in the shape of crosses by the priest. This act symbolizes repentance and a commitment to God. Lent is a season of penance, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, lasting for 40 […]

The IDEAS at DOM – HEaR Initiative hosted several wellness programs in Fall 2025, open to all WashU employees. In October, we collaborated with the Mindfulness Science & Practice, Incubator for Transdisciplinary Futures, and Kathryn M. Buder Center for American Indian Studies for Mindfulness Month 2025. Activities held on both the Danforth and Medicine campuses […]

Martin Luther King Jr. Day ((January 19, 2026) serves as a reminder to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by engaging in acts of service and promoting inclusivity within our communities. It is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to come together, reflect on the progress made, and strive for a more […]

Kwanzaa is a secular festival observed from December 26th through January 1st as part of a celebration of African American cultural heritage and traditional values. Historical background and significance The word Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase, “matunda ya kwanza” or first fruits, referring to First fruits or Harvest festivals that are found throughout Africa. […]

Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish festival (December 14 – 22, 2025). The central theme of Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century B.C. and the miracle of the oil. Hanukkah holds great cultural and religious significance for Jewish communities around the world, and the celebration of this festival […]

Las Posadas is a traditional Mexican celebration that takes place from December 16th to December 24th, marking the nine days before Christmas. This event holds significant cultural and religious importance in Mexico and other Latin American countries, as well as among Latino communities in the United States. Overall, Las Posadas is a deeply meaningful tradition […]

Native American Heritage Month is observed during the month of November in celebration and recognition of the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, contributions, and history of Native American and Indigenous peoples in the United States.  The origins of Native American Heritage Month can be traced back to the efforts of various individuals and organizations who […]