HR trends shaping the future of work in 2025
Ethics and compliance
December is an opportune time for organizations to emphasize diversity and inclusion by embracing multicultural workplace celebrations.
December is an opportune time for organizations to emphasize diversity and inclusion by embracing multicultural workplace celebrations. From Hanukkah to Christmas to Kwanzaa, the month is filled with diverse celebrations. Acknowledging and celebrating these festivities in the workplace advances an organization’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program goals, HR strategy and overall business success by promoting a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Hanukkah, December 7 – 15
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish festival that typically lasts for eight nights and days. It commemorates the miracle of a small quantity of oil that miraculously lasted for eight days, symbolizing the endurance of the Jewish faith. Celebrated with the nightly lighting of the menorah, a nine-branched candelabrum, Hanukkah is a time for reflection, gratitude, and the sharing of traditional foods.
Christmas, December 25
Christmas is a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is a time of joy and giving marked by the exchange of gifts, festive decorations and the gathering of friends and family for special meals and celebrations. Many cultures around the world, regardless of religious affiliation, embrace Christmas as a season of goodwill and generosity.
Kwanzaa, December 26 – January 1, 2024
Kwanzaa celebrates African heritage and identity. The name, Kwanzaa, comes from the Swahili phrase meaning “first fruits (of the harvest).” During the seven-day celebration, families light the Kinara, a candle holder with seven candles representing the seven principles of Kwanzaa including: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith. Other festive traditions include the exchange of handmade gifts, music, dance and feasting.
Educating employees about holiday traditions and customs promotes cultural competence to create an inclusive atmosphere that embraces differences. When employees feel seen, heard, and respected, they feel more connected to their workplace and build stronger team relationships. It breaks down barriers and promotes a sense of camaraderie among coworkers to positively impact mental well-being, job satisfaction and productivity.
Education about multicultural celebrations also serves as a powerful tool in mitigating unconscious biases. By increasing awareness of different customs and traditions, employees are less likely to make assumptions or rely on stereotypes, which reduces misunderstandings and increases empathy.
Multicultural celebrations also contribute to a more enjoyable, supportive and positive work environment that can have a ripple effect on productivity and job satisfaction. When individuals show interest in and actively participate in each other’s celebrations, it fosters a sense of unity among team members, strengthens team dynamics and promotes a collective spirit that can lead to greater collaboration and teamwork.
Organizations can recognize and respect varied holiday traditions and customs by following these best practices: