News

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 […]

In October, the IDEAS at DOM Hear Initiative came together with the Mindfulness Science & Practice with support from the Incubator for Transdisciplinary Futures and the Kathryn M. Buder Center for American Indian Studies to plan Mindfulness Month 2025.  Activities were held on both the WashU Danforth and Medicine campuses and provided an opportunity for […]

Diwali is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in India and among Hindu communities around the world. Diwali is a festival that celebrates the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. It has deep-rooted religious and cultural significance and is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy, fostering unity […]

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is observed every October in the United States to raise awareness about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. In 2025, NDEAM will continue its mission to promote inclusive work environments and highlight the importance of ensuring equal opportunity for all […]

September 22-24 is Rosh Hashanah, or Jewish New Year. The biblical name for this holiday is Yom Teruah and it is the first of the Jewish High Holy Days. Rosh Hashanah is also known as the “Days of Renewed Responsibility,” and begins at sunset on day one and ends at nightfall the next. The Jewish New […]

IDEAS at DOM, through our HEaR Initiative, recently collaborated with the Urban League of St. Louis to gather non-perishable food items, general supplies, and essential infant and hygiene products for those impacted by the St. Louis tornado on May 16th. Large collection bins were strategically placed around the WashU Medicine campus. We are thankful to […]

IDEAS at DOM organized Summer events as part of their HEaR Initiative, offering wellness and resilience activities for DOM faculty, staff, and trainees.