January 13, 2022

The Diversity and Inclusion Working Group met the week before Christmas. They meet every other month to discuss ways that Christian Horizons can nurture a more intentionally inclusive workplace culture.  In December, the members shared some of their own personal experiences on the different ways they celebrate the holiday season.

Did you know that there are about 30 Religious observances from various faith traditions between November 1 and December 30? I did not. I celebrate Christmas and assuming others believe as sincerely as I do, it’s important for me to be respectful and welcoming to their celebrations as well. There are many similarities across the spectrum of celebration.

I learned that food and family gatherings happen across so many celebrations. The food examples that were shared are making me hungry even as I type it now – roast turkey, curries, baked goods, chocolate, quiche, and so much more.

You might have known that the winter season coincides with large incidents of mental health challenges for people. We’re seeing that even more as people struggle through the pandemic. It hadn’t occurred to me that all the food could be a trigger for people with food allergies, contributing to increased anxiety and frustration for them. A little awareness can go a long way to help others.

One person shared that their celebration begins nine days before Christmas and includes gathering at a different home each evening, with families and friends celebrating together. Considering the Omicron-prompted restrictions this season, celebrations like this would have been adjusted, contributing yet again to people’s anxiety on the one hand, and creating opportunities to gather virtually with loved ones both near and far!

A couple of people shared how they choose to often work (at Christian Horizons) at Christmas, so they can help people celebrate their tradition, albeit different. Overall, the group spoke about how beneficial it can be to intentionally ask and share with each other – people using services and colleagues alike – to learn about each other’s cultures and traditions in these times of celebration.

Our own traditions can become richer as we learn about each other. Here’s a simple example from my own family, which is multi-ethnic. Alongside our traditional turkey and stuffing meal, we also had dal, naan, and chana masala. My brother-in-law, for his second helping, had a sandwich with naan as the bread, topped with turkey, a little stuffing, and dal. It was delicious!

This year, Christmas was about survival for many people. I’m so grateful for all those who worked, in the face of the pandemic, to help people celebrate, open a gift, eat, and enjoy the day. And I’m grateful for the differences that we all represent and bring to our work. We are better together, and the differences we bring help to complete the beautiful mosaic within the community of Christian Horizons.

Thank you to the Diversity and Inclusion Working Group for this reminder and for your work!

Sincerely,

Dwayne Milley
Vice President of Operations