Days of significance: December 2025

Nov. 24, 2025

Equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDI&B) is a strategic priority at Georgian. We’re dedicated to fostering a learning and working environment where everyone feels seen, heard and knows they belong through demonstrable, accountable and system-wide commitments to diversity, de-colonization, anti-racism, equity and inclusion. This days of significance calendar lists the days and months that are recognized within the Georgian community.

There are several dates each month that are recognized, observed and celebrated across Canada and internationally, and we encourage everyone to self-educate by referring to these great resources:

• Canadian important and commemorative days.
• UN International Days and Weeks.
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion diversity calendar.

Discover what’s going on in December, find ways to get involved and participate in events or activities, and learn through various resources.

Dec. 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Dec. 3 marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that 1 in 6 people experience a significant disability. Based on this statistic, it’s likely that you know or love someone experiencing a disability. 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated to raise awareness of the experience and rights of disabled people. We know that everyone has a unique set of strengths and areas where extra support is needed. Through the work of our Accessibility Advisory Committee and Accessibility Services, we address barriers that prevent our students, employees and faculty from participating in our community.  

The Georgian College Accessibility Advisory Committee ensures organizational compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. In accordance with the act, Georgian publishes a Multi-Year Accessibility Plan that identifies barriers to inclusion and access, plans to address the barriers, and provides updates on the status of the work.

Read more about the Accessibility Advisory Committee and its work.

Accessibility Services are available to students experiencing functional limitations in the learning environment. Accessibility advisors work with students and faculty to identify barriers to participating in the learning environment and implement accommodations, or modifications to the environment, to promote access and success in classrooms, labs and work-integrated-learning opportunities. 

While the Accessibility Advisory Committee and Accessibility Services champion the work of accommodations and accessibility, advocacy for and inclusion of disabled people is a shared responsibility. Learning more about the experiences of disabled people from disabled content creators and authors may be a good first step. You can also participate in local non-profits that advance advocacy, inclusion, and dignity for disabled people in our communities.  

At Georgian, our core values guide us to be caring and brave. If you are ever concerned about the accessibility of physical spaces at Georgian, submit a maintenance request. If you have concerns about harmful or discriminatory attitudes or behaviours, speak with your faculty, manager, or trusted leader.

Dec. 6 – National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

On December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, we remember the 14 women murdered in the 1989 École Polytechnique tragedy and all those affected by gender-based violence. Every year, on this day, we are called to remember, reflect, and reaffirm our commitment to fight this form of violence. Globally, gender-based violence continues to impact many in our communities, particularly women and marginalized groups, including Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and women with disabilities.

On this day, and every day, it’s essential to educate each other on gender-based violence, support survivors’ voices, and speak out against harmful behaviours.

Dec. 10 – International Human Rights Day

On Dec. 10, we honour International Human Rights Day, commemorating the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on this day in 1948. The UDHR was the first global proclamation of human rights, laying the foundation for a world where everyone’s rights are protected. 
 
Did you know? 
 
1. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, enacted in 1982, is a fundamental part of the Constitution of Canada. It guarantees broad rights and freedoms to individuals in Canada, including freedom of expression, equality rights, and legal rights. 
 
2. Passed in 1977, the Canadian Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, family status, disability, and conviction for which a pardon has been granted. 
 
3. Canada is known for its policy of multiculturalism, which was officially adopted in 1971. This policy recognizes and respects the cultural diversity of its citizens and promotes the inclusion of all cultural groups in Canadian society. 
 
4. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established in 2008 to address the legacy of residential schools in Canada. The TRC’s 94 Calls to Action aim to advance the process of Canadian reconciliation and address the historical and ongoing impacts of these schools on Indigenous peoples. 
 
5. Canada was the fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. The Civil Marriage Act was passed in 2005, granting same-sex couples the right to marry and ensuring equal treatment under the law. This was a significant milestone in the recognition and protection of LGBTQ+ rights in Canada. 
 
 

This day reminds us of our collective responsibility to uphold and promote human rights for all. Join us as we reflect on the progress made and the work still needed to ensure justice and equality worldwide.