The History Each year, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 through October 15, celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Initiated as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 by President Lyndon Johnson and expanded to a month-long celebration in […]
September 11-13 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 […]
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law on July 26, 1990 and was signed by President George H.W. Bush. In his remarks, President George H. W. Bush famously said, “And now I sign legislation which takes a sledgehammer to another wall, one which has for too many generations separated Americans with disabilities from the […]
Caribbean Heritage Month is an annual observance held in June that celebrates the rich culture, history, and contributions of Caribbean people and their descendants. The month-long celebration aims to raise awareness and appreciation for the diverse traditions, languages, music, food, and art that originate from various Caribbean countries. The recognition of Caribbean Heritage Month dates […]
On June 19th, we celebrate Juneteenth, the annual commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States following the Civil War. In Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Grander announced the end of the Civil War and that those enslaved were now free. This announcement, however, came two and a half […]
Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is an annual celebration in the United States during May. It recognizes and honors the contributions of Jewish Americans to the country’s history, culture, and society. The idea for JAHM was proposed by Senator Arlen Specter and Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz in 2005 to appreciate the achievements of Jewish Americans […]
May marks the annual celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States. In 1978 Congress proclaimed the first week of May as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.” Future Presidents continued this annual proclamation until 1992 when Congress and President George H.W. Bush signed a law designating the month of May to celebrate […]
What is Passover? Passover, known as Pesach in Hebrew, is among the most widely celebrated Jewish holidays. It commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, as recounted in the biblical book of Exodus. Lasting for seven or eight days (depending on tradition), Passover is a time of reflection, remembrance, and celebration. […]
April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time dedicated to promoting inclusion and support. It has been officially rebranded from awareness to acceptance to encourage community change. The month begins with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2nd, a United Nations-sanctioned day aimed at celebrating, accepting, and amplifying the voices of autistic individuals. The origins of […]
Each year, National Deaf History Month is celebrated to commemorate the achievements of people who are deaf and hard of hearing. In 2026, it runs from April 1 through April 30. This timeframe was chosen to signify significant milestones in deaf education history, including: The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) introduced National Deaf History […]
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is an annual observance held in March to increase public awareness about developmental disabilities and promote inclusivity, acceptance, and understanding for individuals with these conditions. The month-long campaign aims to educate the public, challenge stereotypes, and highlight the unique abilities and accomplishments of people with developmental disabilities. This year’s National Association of […]
March offers us an opportunity to celebrate Women’s History Month. This annual event honors women’s achievements and contributions throughout history. The theme for the 2026 Women’s History Month is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future” and focuses on women’s leadership in creating a more sustainable future, encompassing environmental, economic, and social justice initiatives. […]
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 […]
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 […]
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.
OUTmed along with the WashU Chancellor’s Office and WashU Olin Business School returned as an Equality sponsor of St. Louis Pride Fest 2025 held June 28-29 in downtown St. Louis. OUTmed coordinated opportunities for WashU Medicine faculty, trainees, residents, students, staff, and allies to participate throughout the weekend. Volunteers helped to staff a booth offering resources […]
MEDA and the WASHU Black Postdoctoral Association were thrilled to host speakers in February and March for their monthly Career Series. For more details on the upcoming sessions of the Career Seminar Series, please visit MEDA’s Upcoming Events.
In observance of Maternal Health Week, IDEAS at DOM and the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology collaborated with the Department of Psychiatry for their Health Equity Speaker Session on April 15th. The session featured a screening of the documentary “Toxic – A Black Women’s Story,” which delved into the factors affecting the pregnancy experiences of […]
IDEAS at DOM organized several events in February, March, and April as part of their HEaR Initiative, offering wellness and resilience activities for DOM faculty, staff, and trainees.
April celebrates both Diversity Month and National Minority Health Month, providing an opportunity to recognize and honor the diversity of the world around us while also addressing the disproportionate burden of premature death and illness in racial and ethnic minority groups. Diversity Month acknowledges and embraces the diverse cultures, perspectives, and identities that make up […]
On Monday, February 10th, IDEAS at DOM and the IDEAS Housestaff Council hosted a breakfast as part of Internal Medicine Resident Funuary, a month-long celebration organized by the IM Chief Residents to boost resident morale and wellness. Internal Medicine residents had the opportunity to visit and network with several Internal Medicine faculty members involved in […]
Medicine Grand Rounds was sponsored by OUTmed on February 13, 2025. Dr. Michael Mazzeo, Dean and Knight Family Professor of the WashU Olin Business School presented “Excellence, Opportunity and Belonging: Why Inclusion Still Matters in Business and Health”.
On January 31, 2025, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) & Office of Diversity Programs along with IDEAS at DOM held the 8th Annual Residents Virtual Showcase. The event welcomed 150 prospective residency applicants from across WashU Medicine and featured a blend of interactive sessions, guest speakers, and networking opportunities with current residents. We extend our heartfelt […]
The Mentorship to Enhance Diversity in Academia (MEDA) Program and the WashU Black Postdoctoral Association hosted Dr. Kia Caldwell, Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs and Diversity and Professor of African American Studies, to launch their Spring 2025 Career Seminar Series on January 30, 2025. Dr. Caldwell presented an insightful talk and provided valuable advice on […]
Ethnic Equality Month, starting on February 1st, is a lively celebration that showcases our diverse world. It highlights the beauty of various cultures and backgrounds, encouraging us to recognize our similarities while cherishing the unique qualities that define each culture. History of Ethnic Equality Month Ethnic Equality Month was established in response to movements that […]
Chinese New Year, also known as the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional festival in China. It marks the beginning of the new year on the traditional lunar calendar and usually falls between January 21 and February 20. The history of Chinese New Year dates back over 4,000 years, rooted […]
On November 11th, OUTmed hosted an OUTmentor Workshop with round table discussions on Leadership Skills, including Managing Teams, Negotiations, and Conflict Resolution. OUTmed would like to thank our table facilitators for the evening: Dr. Mike Mazzeo Dean, Olin Business School Dr. Alison Antes, Associate Director for Faculty Development for the Department of Medicine Melinda […]
The Mentorship to Enhance Diversity in Academia (MEDA) Program and the WUSTL Black Postdoctoral Association kicked off their Fall 2024 seminar series to a full house on October 31st. Department of Medicine Chair, Dr. Vicky Fraser shared her incredible career journey and provided valuable advice and insights. On November 14th, Assistant Professor, Dr. Nelly Joseph-Mathurin, […]
IDEAS at DOM has created the new IDEAS Collaborative which is comprised of division DEI and BRIM (Bias Reduction in Medicine) leads. The Collaborative will aid in advancing IDEAS initiatives throughout DOM and will begin the implementation phase of the BRIM strategic plan that was completed in Fall 2023 under the guidance of consultant Peggy […]
Internal Medicine Resident (PGY2) and OUTmed leader for Resident Recruitment, Dr. Daniel Arroyo-Ariza, presented a poster on “Enhancing LGBTQ+ Residency Recruitment at WashU Med” at 2024 Education Day hosted by the Academy of Educators.
WashU Law professor and author, Dr. John Inazu, recently led a fun and interactive discussion hosted by IDEAS at DOM on his recent book “Learning to Disagree” with our Department of Medicine Business Office Leadership.
OUTmed held their annual Meet & Greet event on October 10, 2024 where the WUSM LGBTQIA+ community and allies networked and celebrated their identities. A big thank you to Dean De Fer for hosting us!
The Mentorship to Enhance Diversity in Academia (MEDA) program hosted their 3rd Annual event on September 11, 2024. Assistant Director of Career Development at Wash U, Dr. Robin Shepard, presented a fun and interactive session for MEDA Mentors and Mentees on “Building Your Professional Network”.
Oktoberfest is a world-renowned festival held annually in Munich, Germany, typically from late September to the first weekend in October Oktoberfest dates back to October 12, 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The citizens of Munich were invited to join the festivities held over five days on […]
Women in Medicine Month, celebrated annually in September, honors the contributions of women in the medical field, including physicians, scientists, researchers, and other healthcare professionals The observance highlights their achievements, roles in patient care, education, and leadership, and promotes gender equity, diversity, and inclusivity in healthcare. It also aims to inspire future generations of women […]
IDEAS at DOM hosted their Annual Summer Welcome & Networking Social for trainees and faculty on Sunday, August 25th from 5:00-7:00pm. The event used community-building activities to encourage guests to meet and interact with each other.
Kai Jones, MD has joined the IDEAS at DOM Leadership Team as the Co-Director of the Internal Medicine Fellow/Postdoc Initiative. Dr. Jones completed her residency and medical school at Washington University School of Medicine and Barnes Jewish Hospital. She recently joined the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism & Lipid Research as an Assistant Professor.
The HEaR Room is a physical representation of the DOM’s commitment to a culture that supports all members in practices to heal from trauma, unlearn implicit bias, eradicate micro-aggressions, and lessen stress-induced burnout. Located on the 6th floor of Wohl Hospital (Room 6607), The HEaR room is available to fully utilize for the practice of mindfulness […]