All - Leep Calendar

Independence Day in Seychelles marks the anniversary of June 29, 1976, the official separation of the nation from Great Britain. Independence Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Jun

Independence Day (WS)(1962): June 1

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Independence Day in Samoa marks the anniversary of June 1, 1962, the official separation of Western Samoa from New Zealand. Independence Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Jun

Independence Dragon Boat Regatta (US-PA): June 7

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INDEPENDENCE DRAGON BOAT REGATTA: A PHILLY TRADITION. Each year, the Schuylkill River comes alive with the rhythmic drumming and synchronized paddling of the Independence Dragon Boat Regatta, a vibrant celebration of culture, teamwork, and community spirit in Philadelphia. A RICH HISTORY Initiated in 2002, the Independence Dragon Boat Regatta began to promote cultural diversity and community engagement. The event has grown steadily, drawing teams across the United States and beyond. Dragon boat racing has ancient roots, originating in China over 2,000 years ago. Traditionally held to honor Qu Yuan, a revered poet and statesman, the sport has evolved into a global phenomenon, with regattas occurring worldwide. THE UNIQUE CHARM OF DRAGON BOATS Dragon boats charm with their ornate designs and team-propelled dynamics. Typically measuring about 40 feet (12 meters), these long, narrow vessels feature dragon heads and tails, painted in bright colors and often accompanied by a drummer who maintains the paddling rhythm. A standard dragon boat crew consists of 20 paddlers, a drummer, and a steerer, all working in perfect harmony to glide swiftly through the water. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RACE The Independence Dragon Boat Regatta holds significant cultural and social importance. It serves as a bridge between communities, fostering understanding and appreciation of Asian heritage. The race also emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, as success in dragon boat racing hinges on the crew's ability to synchronize their efforts. Additionally, the regatta is a charitable event, raising funds for various local and national causes. It brings together participants from diverse backgrounds, including corporate teams, community organizations, and competitive paddlers, all united by the shared goal of making a positive impact. The regatta is not just a race but a lively festival featuring cultural performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Spectators line the banks of the Schuylkill River, cheering on the teams and enjoying the festive atmosphere. The event has become a beloved annual tradition in Philadelphia, showcasing the city's rich cultural tapestry and its spirit of inclusivity.

Africa

Jun

Indictment Day (2023): June 9

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In a seismic development for American politics, the Department of Justice indicted former President Donald Trump on 37 felony charges on June 9, 2023. The 49-page indictment detailed the allegations and established evidence against the former president and resulted from an exhaustive probe by a special counsel that began at the beginning of the year. With the intense due diligence involved prior to charges, over 90 percent of all federal indictments end in a guilty verdict. The charges levied against Trump include: Conspiracy. Dozens of counts of mishandling classified documents. Violations of the Espionage Act. Mr. Trump is the first American president, present or former, to be indicted on criminal charges, though these are expected to be the first of several. He has yet to face charges for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, insurrection, for which over 1,000 people have already been arrested or convicted. And he's also facing federal election interference charges in Georgia. Trump, who consistently refutes all accusations of criminal wrongdoing, immediately played the victim card and described the indictment as "another witch hunt." He used the occasion to launch another fundraising campaign and market paraphernalia trumpeting his victimization. A civil indictment, which he lost earlier in the year, netted him $12 million in funds. Though a current presidential candidate, as of this writing on June 9, 2023, his opponents have yet to condemn the former president's mishandling of top secret, nuclear, and other classified information and its consequences to the United States' security. The trial may be the most high-profile trial in American history. Under US Law, Mr. Trump and his co-conspirator are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. That trial is expected to occur between September 2023 and March 2024.

Africa

Jun

Indigenous History Month, Ntl. (CA): June

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In June, Canadians celebrate National Indigenous History Month to honor the history, heritage, and diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is also an opportunity to recognize the strength of present-day Indigenous communities. National Indigenous History Month is a time for learning about, appreciating, and acknowledging First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people's contributions to shaping Canada. The Government of Canada recognizes the importance and sacred nature of cultural ceremonies and celebrations that usually occur during this time. While festivals and events for National Indigenous History Month may be different this year than those in the past, we can still share and learn from stories, traditions, and culture in new ways that keep us together and connected.

Africa

Jun

Infant Mental Health Week, Ntl. (UK/AU): June 9-15 (est)

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First held in 2016 in the UK and 2017 in Australia, Infant Mental Health Awareness Week seeks to raise awareness among policymakers, professionals, and parents about the over-arching impact upon a child’s life resulting from their experience as a baby and toddler. Research confirms a direct link between infant parent-child bonding or attachment difficulties and psychiatric disorders in later life. This week includes parental and professional workshops, outreach, and tools throughout both nations.

Africa

Jun

Insurance Awareness Day: June 28

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National Insurance Awareness Day begins at the end of the second quarter and a couple of days before the beginning of the third quarter, which is the start of many fiscal years for several corporations and organizations. Insurance Awareness Day is an annual reminder urging people and companies to review their insurance coverage and eliminate what is unnecessary or amend deficient policies, including home, life, medical, auto, renters, worker's compensation, credit, extended disability, and other coverages unique to your situation.

Africa

Jun

Inti Rami (PE/EC): June 24-29

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nti Raymi, often spelled as Inti Rami in English, is a traditional Incan festival that honors Inti, the sun god. Today, Inti Rami occurs in several Andean countries, including Ecuador and Peru. Historical Background: Inti Raymi dates back to the time of the Inca Empire. It takes place on the winter solstice when the sun is furthest from the Earth's Southern Hemisphere and honors the god Inti and pleads for his return. In Inca mythology, Inti was considered the ancestral father of the Inca people, so the festival held significant religious importance. When the Spanish conquistadors arrived, they suppressed Inti Raymi and other indigenous ceremonies as they sought to convert the local population to Christianity. The festival was banned for many years and only survived in some remote communities. The modern-day revival of Inti Raymi began in the mid-20th century. In 1944, Faustino Espinoza Navarro organized a historical reconstruction of the Inti Raymi in Cusco, Peru. Since then, the festival has grown in popularity and is now a major event attracting thousands of visitors yearly. Experience of the Festival: In Peru, the main Inti Raymi event occurs at Sacsayhuamán, an Inca ruin near Cusco. The celebration starts in the morning at Qorikancha, the ancient Inca temple of the sun. The procession then moves to the main square of Cusco before ending at the large, open amphitheater of Sacsayhuamán. Theatrical performances and reenactments of traditional Inca ceremonies highlight the festival. These include an Inca ritual of the sun, offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), the coca leaf ceremony, and the ceremonial lighting of the fire. The performance ends with a procession back to Cusco. The participants, dressed in traditional Inca costumes, create a vibrant and captivating spectacle. The combination of the setting, the ceremony, and the feeling of being connected to a tradition thousands of years old form a unique and moving experience for spectators. In Ecuador, Inti Raymi is often combined with the Catholic celebration of Corpus Christi, reflecting the blending of indigenous and Catholic traditions. The celebrations last several days and involve music, dancing, and feasting. In certain communities, men fight ritualistically (Tinku) to ensure a good harvest. Visitors to either Peru or Ecuador during the time of Inti Raymi will find themselves immersed in a cultural experience that blends history, tradition, and spirituality. The festival provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Andean peoples and their enduring connection to the natural world.

Africa

Jun

Islamic New Year (M) 1447: June 26/27

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Hijri (emigration), or Islamic New Year, is observed on the first day of Muharram, which is the first month in the Islamic calendar. The Islamic calendar begins in 622 AD, and it marks when Mohammed, the prophet of the faith, emigrated from the city of Mecca to Medina in present-day Saudi Arabia. The Islamic calendar is shorter than the Gregorian calendar by 11 days yearly and follows the moon, totaling 354.4 days in length. The calendar begins at sundown, which is why you’ll sometimes see different dates for the event. Some calendars list the first full day, and some list the day it begins after sundown.

Africa

Jun

Islamic Year 1447 (M): June 26, 2025 -June 16, 2026

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The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar used by Muslims to determine the dates of religious events and observances, including Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Hajj. The calendar consists of 12 months, each 29 or 30 days long, and numbers 354 or 355 days a year. Unlike the solar-based Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, with each month beginning with the sighting of the crescent moon. The Prophet Muhammad introduced the Islamic calendar in the seventh century, and it is the official calendar in many Muslim-majority countries. Saudi Arabia uses it for civil and financial purposes but uses the Gregorian for international business, and most Muslim-majority countries use both. The twelve months of the Islamic Calendar are: 1. Muharram 2. Safar 3. Rabi al Awwal 4. Rabi al Thani 5. Jumada al Awwal 6. Jumada al Thani 7. Rajab 8. Shaban 9. Ramadan 10. Shawwal 11. Zul Qaadah 12. Zul Hijjah

Africa

Jun

Jagannath Rath Yatra (H): June 27

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Lord Jagannath, the day's namesake, is an incarnation of Lord Krishna. Rath Yatra is a colorful festival in Odisha, India. Each year during the monsoon season, the images of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, the deities enshrined in the Jagannath Temple at Puri, are carried in colorful processions at twilight for 21 days. People gather at Puri in Odisha to pull the Rath or Cart of Lord Jagarnatha to get his blessing. He comes out of his sanctum to give darshan to all devotees belonging to all sects and communities. Hindus believe that those participating in this festival earn their passage to heaven. The chariots used in the rituals are recreated annually per strict and ancient specifications and are pulled by several thousand devotees at a time. PLEASE NOTE: We use the Indian civil calendar, the official holiday calendar in India. The Hindu faith has many calendars, each specific to different regions and tribes, with dates and celebrations marked by differing positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Names of months and holidays and the corresponding dates in the Gregorian calendar may vary widely from one calendar to the next. Determine the proper calendar before attending local events.

Africa

Jun

James Beard Awards: June 16

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The James Beard Awards recognizes exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality, media, and broader food system, as well as a demonstrated commitment to racial and gender equity, community, sustainability, and a culture where all can thrive. Established in 1990, the James Beard Awards are among the nation’s most prestigious honors recognizing leaders in the culinary and food media industries. The Awards Committee oversees each awards program (Books, Broadcast Media, Journalism, Leadership, and Restaurant and Chef). Subcommittee members volunteer their time to manage the policies, procedures, and selection of judges for their respective programs. All James Beard Award winners receive a certificate and a medallion engraved with the James Beard Foundation Awards insignia.

Africa

Jun

Jerky Day, Ntl: June 12

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Dried and salted meat from fish, poultry, or any animal, is called jerky. Jerky has been created for centuries by Native Americans and Europeans, and it makes meat portable and prevents it from spoiling while preserving its nutritious value. National Jerky Day first ran in 2012.

Africa

Jun

Journalist, Columnists' Day, Ntl.: June 24*

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Journalism is under attack globally and in the United States. Columnists are the people we turn to daily or weekly for information and opinion. They help us sift through data, consider facts and challenge perceived notions. Columnists' Day was created by Jim Six, a columnist with the Gloucester County Times and later South Jersey Times from 1984-2014. Six passed away in 2017, but his event continues in his honor and to honor the columnists who keep us entertained and informed. Always on the 4th Tuesday in June.

Africa

Jun

Juggler's Day, World (1947): June 14*

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World Juggler’s Day occurs on the Saturday closest to June 17 each year. June 17, 1947, is the day the International Juggler’s Association (IJA) came into being. IJA is an organization consisting of jugglers who wish to have regular meetings and promote camaraderie and friendship. World Juggler’s Day honors juggling and the people who push boundaries to keep this skill alive. Today, people learn how to juggle or watch a professional juggler do his thing. World Juggler’s Day is one of two Juggling Days in the LEEP calendar. The day set aside for master multitaskers occurs in mid-April each year.

Africa