All - Leep Calendar

Just in case you’ve concluded that the US Senate cannot agree on anything, on September 30, 2021, they did agree to designate September as National Democracy Month. It is a designation the American Democracy Month Council, a bipartisan group of former diplomats and politicians, has advocated for since 2017. The goal is to educate Americans about their government and increase appreciation for its unique status worldwide. Tools are available on the organization’s website. HISTORY Tracing its roots to ancient Greek democracy, the United States has evolved to become a leading democratic republic and a beacon of hope for many nations. This governance model has been replicated globally, yet, as reported by Freedom House, over a third of the world's population still lives in non-free states. The U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, bolstered by the Reconstruction Era amendments, safeguard American citizens' rights, emphasizing the significance of free and fair elections. However, maintaining democracy requires effort. Various leaders, including former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and Presidents John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, have highlighted the importance of nurturing and protecting democratic values. Congressman John R. Lewis underscored that democracy is an ongoing act, while World War II starkly revealed democracy's vulnerabilities. Historical leaders, such as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, have voiced the significance of democracy and the education of the populace in upholding it. The Senate's resolution not only establishes September as a month of reflection on democracy's contributions but also urges states, local governments, and the American people to commemorate it with ceremonies and activities. These events foster appreciation for the U.S. government system and remind Americans of the sacrifices to preserve American freedoms and principles.

Africa

Sep

Democracy, Intl. Day of: September 15

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International Day of Democracy occurs in all nations governed by democratic principles worldwide. The day acknowledges and honors the benefits of democracy to society and raises awareness about the vital importance of core democratic values and their significance throughout history.

Africa

Sep

Derna Flood (LY)(2023): September 10

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On September 10, 2023, a powerful storm named Daniel and two dams collapsing caused catastrophic flooding in the eastern Libyan city of Derna and its surrounding villages, including Bayda, Sousse, Shahat, Omar al-Mokhtar, and Marj. The devastation in Derna followed the collapse of two aging dams, resulting in the rapid release of river water that washed away an entire neighborhood. Online footage shows whole residential areas obliterated, with apartment buildings partially sinking into the mud. Four bridges collapsed, and utilities were wiped out. In its wake, the flood has killed over 5,000 people, with thousands more still missing as of this writing two days later. Derna and the surrounding villages remain largely inaccessible, prompting local leaders to describe the situation as a "catastrophe" and hampering international aid efforts. Despite a population of 100,000, Derna has no hospitals. The region has few public services, and its infrastructure was already in ruins. Add in the ongoing decade-long conflict between two rival federal governments, each supported by their respective militias, and efforts to render aid and get supplies to those that need them are futile. Historically, Libya has faced governance challenges, especially after the 2011 uprising that led to the downfall of Moammar Gadhafi. This instability has resulted in limited investment in infrastructure and public services. The storm impacted not only Derna but other regions, including Benghazi. The United Nations and various international leaders have expressed condolences and readiness to assist.

Africa

Sep

Dia da Arvore, (BR): September 21

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Dia da Arvore, or Arbor Day, occurs on September 21 in Brazil and focuses on preserving and saving the nation's rainforest.

Africa

Sep

Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, Ntl.: September 6-12

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National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week recognizes the people who work directly with the physically and mentally disabled. Throughout the week, staff honor these outstanding professionals through incentives, parties, and lunches.

Africa

Sep

DNA, Genomics and Stem Cell Education Month, Ntl.: September

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DNA, Genomics, and Stem Cell Education and Awareness Month is sponsored each September by Pharmacists Planning Service, Inc. Legal issues surrounding this research are an area of constant contention. Both the medical field and the legal field are continuing to feel their way through. Several controversies impede the progress of stem cell research and DNA: How DNA data banks may be used by law enforcement. Implications of genetic testing. Patentability of a person’s DNA. These controversies stem from religious beliefs, not universally held, that establish life at conception. Opposing are scientists and others who point to how stem cells, DNA, and Genomics may one day find cures for many diseases such as Cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and others. Stem cells can come from abortions and cord blood when a baby is born. DNA, Genomics, and Stem Cell Education and Awareness Month is an opportunity to learn the facts and become informed on the subject.

Africa

Sep

Dog Walker Appreciation Day, Ntl: September 8

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Created in 2016, National Dog Walker Appreciation Day honors the people who make a living walking other people's dogs. The day is celebrated by dog owners and their walkers wearing green. Annually on September 8.

Africa

Sep

Dog Week, Ntl.: September 20-26

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National Dog Week began in 1928. Created by Captain William Judy, a Great War Veteran, Silver Star recipient, and canine fan, Judy started the week to celebrate dogs, raise funds for their care, and encourage adoption. Later, he founded Dog World magazine. National Dog Week occurs the fourth week of September.

Africa

Sep

Dolphins of Taiji, Intl. Day of Awareness: September 1

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International Day of Awareness for the Dolphins of Taiji began in 2004 with the Save Japan Dolphins campaign. Since 2004, the number of people eating dolphin meat has dropped dramatically. In 2004, 1,600 dolphins were killed on average in Taiji each year. During the 2014-15 season, fewer than 750 were killed. The Academy Award-winning documentary "The Cove" depicts Earth Island Institute's campaign in Taiji to stop the dolphin hunts. Recently, after ten years of pressure, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums agreed to suspend the membership of any Japanese aquarium sourcing dolphins from Taiji. In response, Japanese zoos and aquariums voted overwhelmingly to stop buying live dolphins from Taiji. The Taiji dolphin slaughter continues today, with the Japanese government claiming killing dolphins is part of Japan's culture. In reality, this cultural tradition began in 1969.

Africa

Sep

Dot Day, Intl. (2009): September 15

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International Dot Day, a global celebration of creativity, courage, and collaboration, originated when teacher Terry Shay introduced his classroom to Peter H. Reynolds’ book ‘The Dot’ on September 15, 2009. The observance cultivates creativity and confidence by following the story of The Dot. A teacher challenges a student to trust in her abilities and “make her mark.” Thus, she begins her life journey of discovery with a single dot on the paper. The Dot Day website has multiple resources for teachers and parents of homeschoolers to use to make the most of International Dot Day. This event falls on September 15 unless the 15th is a weekend. Then it falls on the nearest school day.

Africa

Sep

Dream Day, World: September 25

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World Dream Day is a global day dedicated to setting dreams in motion. The day's purpose is to honor the dreamer, visionary, and innovator in all of us through live and online events. The mission is to rebuild the human imagination and unite the world in achievement and aspiration. Doing so makes the world brighter, more innovative, and more collaborative. This event first ran in 2013.

Africa

Sep

Duchenne Awareness Day, Intl: September 7

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EMPATHY FOR A DESTRUCTIVE DISEASE: WORLD DUCHENNE'S AWARENESS DAY World Duchenne Awareness Day, observed annually on September 7, aims to raise global awareness about Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a severe and progressive muscle-wasting disease. The day seeks to educate the public, support affected individuals and their families, and advocate for research and treatment advancements. By highlighting the challenges faced by those with Duchenne, the day promotes understanding, solidarity, and action towards finding a cure. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It results from mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes dystrophin, a protein essential for muscle function. The gene's absence or deficiency of dystrophin leads to the deterioration of muscle fibers over time. DMD primarily affects boys, with symptoms typically appearing in early childhood. DUCHENNE'S IMPACT ON A PERSON'S LIFE Unlike Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, Duchenne is a genetic disorder that primarily impacts skeletal and cardiac muscles. The following illustrates several challenges. Duchenne muscular dystrophy significantly impacts physical health. Early symptoms include difficulty walking, frequent falls, and trouble climbing stairs. As the disease progresses, muscle weakness spreads, leading to the loss of the ability to walk, respiratory difficulties, and heart complications. Most individuals with Duchenne require a wheelchair by their early teens and may face life-threatening cardiac and respiratory issues by their twenties. The progressive nature of Duchenne also affects social and emotional well-being. Individuals with Duchenne and their families often experience significant emotional stress due to the physical limitations and the relentless progression of the disease. Social isolation, anxiety, and depression are common, making psychological support and community inclusion critical components of care. THE EVENT'S HISTORY World Duchenne Awareness Day began on September 7, 2014, upon initiation by the World Duchenne Organization (formerly the United Parent Projects Muscular Dystrophy). The date symbolizes Duchenne's seven most common symptoms, raising awareness about these early indicators. SEVEN COMMON INDICATORS OF DUCHENNE The seven most common symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) typically manifest in early childhood and progressively worsen over time. These symptoms are indicators that parents and healthcare providers often look for to diagnose the condition: Delayed Motor Milestones Children with Duchenne often experience delays in reaching developmental milestones such as sitting, standing, and walking. They may start walking later than typical children. Difficulty Running and Jumping As muscle weakness progresses, children may struggle with activities that require running, jumping, or climbing stairs. They may appear clumsy and frequently fall. Frequent Falls Due to muscle weakness, children with Duchenne are prone to frequent falls. They may need help maintaining balance and coordination. Gower's Sign Gower's Sign is a distinctive way of rising from the floor, where the child uses their hands to "walk" up their own body for support due to weakness in the hip and thigh muscles. Calf Muscle Enlargement (Pseudohypertrophy) The calf muscles may appear unusually large due to muscle tissue being replaced by fat and connective tissue—one of the early noticeable signs. Waddling Gait Children with Duchenne often develop a waddling gait due to weakness in the hip muscles. Their walk may appear swaying and unsteady. Difficulty Climbing Stairs Climbing stairs becomes increasingly difficult due to progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the legs and pelvic muscles. Children may need to use handrails for support or may avoid stairs altogether. These symptoms are often accompanied by other signs, such as fatigue and difficulty raising arms, with respiratory and cardiac complications as the disease progresses. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing Duchenne muscular dystrophy and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. HOW TO PARTICIPATE The day has since grown into a global movement, with events and campaigns held in numerous countries to spotlight the urgent need for research, better treatments, and support for those affected. Here's how to participate. Awareness Campaigns On World Duchenne Awareness Day, various organizations, advocacy groups, and communities participate in awareness campaigns. These efforts include educational seminars, social media campaigns, and public service announcements to inform the public about Duchenne muscular dystrophy, its symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis. Fundraising Events Fundraising events, such as charity runs, walks, and auctions, are organized to support research initiatives and provide resources for affected families. These events often bring together patients, families, healthcare providers, and supporters to foster a sense of community and shared purpose. Educational Programs Schools, universities, and medical institutions conduct educational programs and workshops to discuss the latest advancements in Duchenne research, treatment options, and patient care. These programs aim to increase understanding among healthcare professionals and the general public, promoting better support and care for those with Duchenne. Community Engagement Community centers and local organizations host gatherings and activities to celebrate the resilience of individuals with Duchenne and their families. These events provide opportunities for social interaction, support, and sharing personal stories, helping build a supportive and informed community. Online Participation Social media platforms are vital in spreading awareness and connecting people worldwide. Hashtags like #WorldDuchenneDay and #DuchenneAwareness designated stories, photos, and educational content, reaching a broad audience and fostering global solidarity. World Duchenne Awareness Day is a powerful platform for raising awareness, driving research, and fostering a global support community for those affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy. By spotlighting the challenges and needs of individuals with Duchenne, the day contributes to increased understanding, improved care, and the ongoing quest for a cure.

Africa

Sep

Dystonia Awareness Month (AU): September

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Dystonia Awareness Month, formerly week in Australia, seeks to raise awareness of this neurological condition. Dystonia is characterized by involuntary and sustained muscle spasms, abnormal movements, and postures. Typically it affects the motor pathways in the brain, controlling the recruitment and activity of muscles, resulting in involuntary actions and spasms. Besides the rare dopa-responsive dystonia, dystonia takes the night off and disappears during sleep. Unfortunately, it wakes with its human, and the cycle starts again. Though rarely fatal, currently, there is no cure. Dystonia is managed through medication, surgery, and other therapies.

Africa

Sep

Dystonia Awareness Month (CA): September

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Dystonia Awareness Month in Canada occurs in September. Dystonia is characterized by involuntary and sustained muscle spasms, abnormal movements, and postures. Typically it affects the motor pathways in the brain, controlling the recruitment and activity of muscles, resulting in involuntary actions and spasms. Dystonia can affect movement, posture, speech, sight, and mobility. Living with dystonia can be painful, debilitating, embarrassing, and stigmatizing. Causes vary and include gene mutations, brain lesions, premature birth, disorders of body biochemistry known as inborn errors of metabolism, and exposure to drugs or chemicals. Besides the rare dopa-responsive dystonia, dystonia takes the night off and disappears during sleep. Unfortunately, it wakes with its human, and the cycle starts again. Though rarely fatal, currently, there is no cure. Dystonia is managed through medication, surgery, and other therapies.

Africa

Sep

Ecclesiastical Orthodox New Year (C): September 1

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September 1 is the beginning of the new religious year in the Orthodox Christian community.

Africa