All - Leep Calendar

Today is the first day of the year's season sequestered between the long, hot days of summer and short, bitterly cold days of winter, otherwise known as Autumn (or Fall). Fall begins at the Autumnal Equinox when the sun crosses the celestial equator and moves from the Northern Hemisphere to Southern Hemisphere each September. OR Fall occurs south of the equator when the sun crosses the same line from the Southern Hemisphere to the Northern each March. Whichever sphere you live in, happy first day of Fall (or Spring).

Africa

Mar

Fanny Pack Day, Intl.: March 14

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The Fanny Pack, love it or hate it, that depends on when you were born. For this writer, a GenXer, when my parents (Boomers and Lost Generation) first donned a fanny pack in the early 1990s and wanted to be seen in public with me, my answer: “Nooooooooooo! Over my dead body!” To this day, a veteran traveler of over 55 countries, I still refuse to wear one, opting for a money belt and camera bag, but I will be seen in public with my parents sporting one. Of course, the organizer of International Fanny Pack Day has tied it to a philanthropic activity that makes it difficult to knock the fashion statement: ending hunger and supporting your local food bank. They say to wear one for the day to raise awareness, and don’t forget to support your local food bank. They don’t say it can’t be on your dog, car antenna, stroller, bike, soccer ball, purse, backpack, or something else. Creatives, get creative and show off that fanny pack in a manner that doesn’t offend your fashion sense! It is all for a good cause, after all. This event occurs annually on the second Saturday of March.

Africa

Mar

Eye Wellness Month, Workplace: March

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National Workplace Eye Safety Month occurs each year. Eye injuries are common in many industries, such as construction, manufacturing, etc. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2012, 20,300 recorded occupational eye injuries resulted in days away from work. Prevent your eyes from injuries and take appropriate safety measures. This month is about raising awareness and providing the resources necessary to protect eyes in the workplace.

Africa

Mar

Eye Donor Month, Ntl.: March

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Since 1983 the EBAA has held National Eye Donor Month to promote awareness of the need to donate eyes as part of the organ donor program, recognize donors and their families, and celebrate corneal recipients. Each year a member of Congress reads a proclamation into the Congressional Record to note this special occasion.

Africa

Mar

Extraterrestrial Abductions Day: March 20

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Celebrating Extraterrestrial Abductions Day can take multiple forms. Whether you watch the skies expecting or wishing to be abducted by alien life forms or prefer watching movies about UFOs and aliens, this is your day to let your ET shine.

Africa

Mar

Expanding Girls' Horizons in Science and Engineering Month: March

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Girls Make Excellent Scientists and Engineers Expanding Girls' Horizons in Science and Engineering Month, celebrated annually, is an initiative that encourages and supports girls and young women in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This observance aims to address the gender disparities in these fields and to foster a more inclusive environment for girls to explore and excel in STEM careers. Girls and young women face several hurdles in becoming scientists or engineers: Stereotypes and Gender Bias: Persistent stereotypes about gender roles and abilities in science and engineering often discourage girls from pursuing interests in these areas. Such biases can also affect girls' support and encouragement from teachers, parents, and peers. Lack of Role Models: The underrepresentation of women in STEM fields means fewer female role models for young girls, which can impact their aspirations and belief in their ability to succeed in these careers. Educational Barriers: Gender gaps in STEM education, such as differences in encouragement, resources, and school opportunities, can hinder girls' engagement and achievement in these subjects. Confidence Gap: Studies have shown that girls often underestimate their abilities in math and science, which can lead to lower interest and participation in these fields. Expanding Girls' Horizons in Science and Engineering Month was created to address these challenges and promote girls' participation in STEM. The exact year of its inception varies by source, but the movement has gained significant momentum in recent years. The month's goals include: Raising Awareness: Highlighting the importance of gender diversity in STEM and the need to address the barriers that girls face. Providing Resources and Opportunities: Offering workshops, mentorship programs, and educational resources to inspire and support girls in pursuing STEM education and careers. Showcasing Role Models: Mentors and symposiums featuring successful women in science and engineering will be featured to provide inspiration and guidance for young girls. Encouraging Educational Institutions: Advocating for schools and universities to implement policies and programs that support girls in STEM. This observance includes various events, such as science fairs, workshops, panel discussions, and mentoring sessions, organized by schools, universities, nonprofits, and corporations. The overarching aim is to create a supportive and inclusive environment that empowers girls to pursue their interests and careers in science and engineering, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and innovative STEM workforce.

Africa

Mar

Exotic Winter Fruit and Leeks and Green Onions Month: March

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Exotic Winter Fruit & Leeks and Green Onions Month is an unofficial event foreign of sponsorship observed annually in March. It highlights the culinary and nutritional value of certain less-common winter fruits and the versatility of leeks and green onions. This observance aims to encourage the exploration of diverse produce and to incorporate these items into daily diets for enhanced flavor and health benefits. Some exotic winter fruits that people can try during this month include: Persimmons: Sweet and honey-like in flavor, persimmons are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Pomegranates: Known for their juicy tart seeds, pomegranates are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Kiwis: This small fruit is packed with vitamin C and adds a tangy flavor to dishes. Blood Oranges: Named for their deep red flesh, they are less acidic than regular oranges and have a unique raspberry-like flavor. Starfruit (Carambola): When sliced, this fruit is star-shaped and has a crisp texture and a mildly sweet and sour flavor. Guava: Rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, guava is eaten raw or cooked and is prized for its sweet and tart taste. Including leeks and green onions in March ties into their seasonal availability. These vegetables are typically harvested in the spring, making March an ideal time to feature them. Leeks and green onions are celebrated for their distinct flavors, which range from mild to sharp, and their ability to enhance a wide variety of dishes, from soups and salads to main courses. Through various events, cooking classes, and promotional campaigns, Exotic Winter Fruit & Leeks and Green Onions Month aims to inspire people to expand their palates and explore the variety of produce available during winter. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of including fruits and vegetables in our diets for overall health and wellness.

Africa

Mar

Exchange Day, Ntl. (1911): March 27

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National Celebrate Exchange Day, organized by the National Exchange Club on the anniversary of its creation on March 27, 1911, recognizes and celebrates the positive impact of idea exchange programs in supporting individuals, communities, and those at risk. While the National Exchange Club primarily focuses on community service and preventing child abuse, "celebrating exchange" broadly aligns with its mission of building better communities through service. Celebrating the exchange aligns with fostering understanding and cooperation among different cultures and communities. National Celebrate Exchange Day underscores the value of exchanging ideas to enrich lives and build bridges between communities. Celebrating these exchanges highlights the enduring impact of such experiences on individuals and societies, reinforcing the importance of continued support and participation in these transformative programs.

Africa

Mar

Everything You Do Is Right Day: March 16

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National Everything You Do is Right Day is a day to feel good about everything you do. When you are right, you’re right. There is no wrong way about it. Take the good with the bad and have the right kind of day.

Africa

Mar

Everything You Think Is Wrong Day: March 15

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The Ids of March is also known as Everything You Do is Wrong Day, a day when decision-making should be avoided and when you can confront someone who always thinks they’re right. Never fear, however, for tomorrow is Everything You Do Is Right Day!

Africa

Mar

Evacuation Day, British (LY)(1970): March 28

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Evacuation Day commemorates March 28, 1970, the British evacuation of its troops from Libyan soil and ports. Libya has several evacuation days marking various departures, including June 11, 1970, American Evacuation Day. October 7, 1970, Italian Evacuation Day.

Africa

Mar

Evacuation Day, Boston (1776): March 17

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March 17 is more than Saint Patrick's Day in Boston, Massachusetts, and it's a citywide holiday marking the evacuation of British troops from Boston during the Revolutionary War on March 17, 1776. Ironically, both Evacuation Days in LEEP calendar celebrate the evacuation of British troops from a territory. Today's in the US, and the other in Egypt in 1954.

Africa

Mar

European Action Week Against Racism: March 16-22

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The European Action Week Against Racism is a significant event that mobilizes people across Europe to participate in actions that challenge racism and promote a more inclusive society. UNITED primarily coordinates this initiative for Intercultural Action, a pan-European network against nationalism, racism, fascism, and in support of migrants and refugees. The event traces its roots to the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21, which was established by the United Nations in 1966 to commemorate the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa. Over time, this day evolved into a broader week-long series of events and activities across Europe. The European Action Week Against Racism aims to raise awareness of racial discrimination and promote respect for diversity and inclusion. Activities during this week include educational programs, cultural events, protests, and campaigns designed to foster a better understanding of racism and how it affects individuals and communities. These events are often organized by local NGOs, community groups, educational institutions, and activists, each contributing to a larger, continent-wide movement against racism. The universal definition of racism is complex and multifaceted, often subject to various interpretations based on historical, cultural, and social contexts. Generally, racism is defined as prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's race is superior, including individual behaviors and institutional practices that perpetuate racial inequality. Racism can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to racial slurs, exclusionary policies, systemic inequalities in education and employment, and violence against individuals, groups, or nations based on their race. It is also the act of supporting racist actions passively, by proxy, or overtly. Examples of national racism, direct and by proxy, include: Financially, politically, and militarily supporting wars or actions against a people due to their ethnicity, race, religion, or origin. Promoting, protecting, or ignoring any actions defined in the five aspects of genocide. Proffering ethnic cleansing as a 'humane' solution to any crisis, whether manmade or environmental. Supporting one group or nation's legal rights, including fundamental human rights, while denying the same rights, consideration, and credibility to the people they occupy, colonize, disenfranchise, or oppress. Failing to act when racism becomes known, thereby passively accepting it and endorsing it. Of course, the above is just a dent in how people and nations knowingly or through agency engage in racism. However, given the events of the fourth quarter of 2023 and into 2024, Europe has a lot of work to do during this week. Several of its nations are currently engaged in each of the outlined examples. Regrettably, North America and its "special relationship" are not included in this event. The European Action Week Against Racism plays a crucial role in uniting people across Europe in the fight against racial prejudice and discrimination. It encourages a reflection on the pervasive nature of racism and the collective responsibility to create a society that respects and celebrates diversity. The event seeks to educate, inspire, and provoke action through its activities, contributing to the ongoing global effort to eradicate racism.

Africa

Mar

Ethics Awareness Month, Ntl.: March

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National Ethics Awareness Month strengthens the ethical culture within organizations and fosters success. Ethics are different than laws and based upon common moral principles. Currently, there are no laws requiring separation between business and high office. However, ethically, the potential to abuse power to advance one’s business concerns and profitability through public office has raised severe ethics concerns, where a person profits from service rather than serving. One can be unethical without being unlawful, and one can also break the law for ethical reasons. Refusing orders in the military that violate international law is an example of breaking a military code or law for ethical reasons. Debating these issues and seeking ways to manage and mitigate them is a central purpose of this day. Use this opportunity to examine your ethical values and see how they fit into your life and company culture.

Africa

Mar

Equal Pay Day for Women (US): March 17

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Equal Pay Day originated with the National Committee on Pay Equity (NCPE) in 1996 as a public awareness event to illustrate the gap between men's and women's wages. AAUW also publishes a date. Since the date is not set until a few weeks out, we at LEEP have run the numbers to come up with this year's date. HOW THIS DATE IS DETERMINED: Formula (non-leap year): Extra days = ⌈ 365 × (1 / pay_ratio − 1) ⌉ Equal Pay Day = Jan 1, 2026 + Extra days AAUW’s most recent figures list women earning 83% of men’s pay for full-time, year-round work, and 75% for all workers (including part-time/seasonal). Results for the U.S. in 2026 (calculated) All women (full-time, year-round; 0.83 ratio): March 17, 2026 All women (all workers; 0.75 ratio): May 3, 2026 Advocacy groups sometimes publish an “official” Equal Pay Day for a given year based on their chosen dataset/method, so the publicly observed date can differ from (or be updated relative to) this calculation.

Africa