Diversity & Inclusion Spotlight - April 2025

By Shelley Strong

World Autism Awareness Day • International Day of Pink • Earth Day

April 2 - World Autism Awareness Day

World Autism Awareness Day recognizes the strengths and contributions of people on the autism spectrum. This day is an important opportunity to focus on the needs of autistic people and work towards a more inclusive and supportive society for all.  

Purposes of International Autism Awareness Day

April 9 - International Day of Pink

International Day of Pink celebrates diversity and stands against bullying, especially homophobia and transphobia.  

The day began in 2007 when two students in Nova Scotia, Canada noticed a classmate being bullied for wearing pink. The students encouraged their classmates to wear pink to show support and make their school a safer space. The initiative inspired the creation of International Day of Pink to support LGBTQ+ students internationally.

April 22 - Earth Day

2025 is the 55th anniversary of Earth Day. 

The theme for Earth Day 2025 is "Our Power, Our Planet." This theme highlights the importance of renewable energy in fighting climate change and creating a sustainable future.  

Earth Day is a day to raise awareness and take action to protect the planet. The first Earth Day was held in 1970. It was inspired by a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California in 1969. Senator Gaylord Nelson was so shocked by the spill that he wanted to create a day to prevent future oil spills. The first Earth Day was one of the largest demonstrations in U.S. history, with an estimated 20 million people participating. 
 
How can you participate?