Move Beyond Performative: Create a DEI Calendar for Your Organization

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)—yes, I said it—aren’t just buzzwords. They’re about creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and respected. One easy yet powerful way nonprofit leaders and boards can foster belonging is by building an inclusive calendar that acknowledges cultural, religious, and heritage observances throughout the year.

Too often, organizations plan meetings, retreats, and events without considering holidays beyond Christmas, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July. This oversight can make board members and staff from underrepresented communities feel invisible. But recognizing a broader range of observances—like Black History Month (February), International Women’s Day (March 8), Diwali (November), Black Solidarity Day (first Monday in November), LGBTQ+ Pride Month (June), Juneteenth (June 19), Ramadan (varies by year), Lunar New Year (January or February), Kwanzaa (December 26–January 1), and Indigenous Peoples’ Day (second Monday in October)—sends a strong message: “We see you. You belong here.”

Studies back this up. Harvard Business Review found that organizations prioritizing inclusion see stronger engagement and team cohesion, while McKinsey & Company reported that companies with diverse leadership outperform their peers by 36% in profitability. Creating an inclusive calendar isn’t just a nice gesture—it’s a smart, strategic move.

By avoiding major meetings or deadlines on these important dates, nonprofit leaders show real commitment to equity. This small but meaningful step builds loyalty, improves morale, and attracts a more diverse talent pool. Your leaders' actions should reflect your organization's values—not just in words, but through intentional choices.

Take Action: Download Our Free Inclusive Calendar!

Want to ensure your board and leadership team respects and celebrates diversity all year long? Download our free Inclusive Calendar Template, packed with key cultural and religious observances to help you plan more thoughtfully. The Board Pro DEI Calendar | The Board Pro

Tips for More Inclusive Scheduling:

• Ask Your Team – Check in with board and staff members about observances that matter to them.
• Plan Ahead – Mark important holidays on your calendar to prevent scheduling conflicts.
• Celebrate & Educate – Share resources, invite guest speakers, host a global potluck, or play “Get to Know You” Bingo.
• Be Flexible – Allow board and staff members to observe personal or religious holidays without penalty.

Show, Don’t Just Say, That Inclusion Matters

Let’s move beyond good intentions and take real action. Honoring diverse holidays isn’t just considerate—it reflects the heart of your organization. By incorporating an inclusive organizational calendar, you’re making it clear that everyone belongs.

And trust me—your volunteers, donors, and funders are paying attention. Show them who you really are: a board and staff-centered organization that values and lives diversity, not just talks about it.

Christal M. Cherry, Principal and CEO of The Board Pro, is jazzed about helping nonprofits and their boards show up, lead boldly, and serve with impact. With a coaching style that’s energetic, engaging, and rooted in equity, she trains CEOs and boards to embrace inclusion and power-sharing. Want to work with Christal? Learn more at www.theboardpro.com.

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