Diverse Somerset Calendar for Schools and Other Services 2014-15

Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
Calendar of Festivals and Events
September 2014 – August 2015
Introduction
This is the eleventh annual calendar produced by the Equalities and Diversity team in Somerset County Council’s
Learning and Achievement Service to help schools and other services make links with cultural and religious festivals
throughout the school year, in assemblies, classrooms and other contexts. Somerset is a diverse county and the
school population is becoming increasingly varied, with over 100 languages now spoken at home by Somerset pupils
and many different religious groups also represented. Schools have a legal duty to promote community cohesion and
to have due regard for the need to foster good relations between groups. Over the years that schools were inspected
on community cohesion, Somerset school inspection reports made frequent comments about the need to increase
pupils’ awareness of British diversity.
The calendar includes all major world faiths and a wide range of cultural events. This makes it unique (as far as we are
aware) as faith calendars do not normally include cultural events. We hope that the calendar will highlight the many
festivals and events taking place locally, nationally and internationally. Some are already well known, whilst others
may be less familiar. Every year we make additions (for example updated website links) and incorporate suggestions
made by community associations and members of Somerset’s Standing Advisory Council for Religious Education.
Additional information about festivals or events for us to incorporate into next year’s calendar is always welcome.
For further information, please contact the Equalities and Diversity team at County Hall (01823 356644). We have
tried to check the accuracy of all the information, but apologise in advance if there are any errors and will be pleased to
make amendments where we are told of any inaccuracies. Most dates for religious festivals change from year to year
and accurate information can be hard to find.
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
Somerset County Council values diversity, and celebrates cultural and social differences.
Our Equal Opportunities Promise is to provide all services of equal quality which meet your
needs and fulfil your rights. You can expect us to treat you fairly, with respect and dignity,
and to be understanding of whoever you are and whatever your background.
To request this document in an alternative format please contact us.
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Month
September
2014
Events/
Festivals
August Moon
Festival (8
September)
International
Peace Day
(21
September)
Rosh
Hashanah
(25
September)
Navaratri
25 Sept - 3
Oct
Event/Festival Information
The August Moon Festival or MidAutumn Festival is one of the
most celebrated Chinese holidays.
It is held on the 15th day of the
8th lunar month. Chinese families
celebrate the end of the harvest
season with a big feast, including
‘mooncakes’.
This day provides an opportunity
to mark personal and planetary
progress towards peace. To
celebrate the day it can be as
simple lighting a candle at noon,
sitting in meditation or you may
wish to be involved in a large
event.
The Jewish New Year and the
beginning of a ten-day period of
repentance, ending on Yom
Kippur. It is a time of
introspection, abstinence, prayer
and penitence.
Navaratri (nine nights) is one of
the greatest Hindu festivals. It
symbolises the triumph of good
over evil. Navratri takes place at
the beginning of October around
harvest time and, as the name
implies, this festival is celebrated
for nine days. Navratri is also
known as Durga Puja.
Opportunities for
Schools in Somerset
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
Updated August 2014
Links to Further Information
http://tinyurl.com/qham526
http://tinyurl.com/npatf3f
http://tinyurl.com/o3o89tn
http://tinyurl.com/8e44dht
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/qjxf7z3
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/4tro3z
http://tinyurl.com/nrqdaj2
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
September
2014
(contd)
Sept/Oct
Harvest Festival
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
October
2014
Black History
Month
A celebration of Black African and
Caribbean history and culture,
often including South Asian
history.
Funding may be
available to contribute
towards the cost of
events in schools
aimed at celebrating
Black History Month
(contact the Equalities
and Diversity team for
details). Workshop
leaders can also be
recommended.
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/nfjjrmr
http://tinyurl.com/yfwxul2
http://tinyurl.com/pb98lkq
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
October
2014
(contd)
Double Nine
Festival (2
October)
Waqf al Arafa
(3 October)
Yom Kippur –
Day of
Atonement
(4 October)
Dussehra
(4 October)
Updated August 2014
The 9th Day of the 9th lunar
month when Chinese people go up
to hills to worship and maintain
tombs of their ancestors. A man
call Huang Jing followed Pei the
Daoist’s advice and took his whole
family up a mountain for a day.
When they got home they
discovered all their domestic
animals dead... so this day was
originally to drive away danger,
but is now a day of celebration.
One day during Hajj (pilgrimage)
when Muslim pilgrims pray for
forgiveness and mercy.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/o2kbjmm
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/q6mnqrm
The holiest day in the Jewish year,
with strict fasting and ceremonial
repentance. To re-establish
oneness with god, Jews ask for
forgiveness and forgive others.
The traditional greeting is Tzom
Kal, which means “May you have
an easy fast.”
Hindu celebration of victory and
valour. The occasion marks the
triumph of Lord Rama over the
demon king, Ravana. It is the
victory of good over evil.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/nsxy55q
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/qhnlx6r
http://tinyurl.com/ogop2o5
http://tinyurl.com/pd4v9hl
http://tinyurl.com/q6mnqrm
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
October
2014
(contd)
Updated August 2014
Eid al Adha
(Festival of
Sacrifice)
4 October
An important Muslim festival to
remember Abraham, marked by
feasting. Meat is given to the
poor.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/5k2l34
Sukkot
(Begins at
sundown 8
October)
Jewish celebration of the harvest
and protection of the people of
Israel as they wandered in the
wilderness.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/oe8p8mj
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/o66zts9
http://tinyurl.com/ndl36k2
http://tinyurl.com/nhlko87
http://tinyurl.com/p4br6kr
Boun Ok
Phansa
(8 October)
This celebration marks the end of
the Buddhist Lent. It is a happy
celebration and an important time
for charitable donations, which
brings merits to the givers.
Interfaith
week of
prayer for
world peace
(12 October –
19 October)
An annual week of prayer for the
peace of the world.
http://tinyurl.com/nloevbs
Show Racism
the Red Card
– fortnight of
action (17-31
October)
For some reason the fortnight of
action is only applicable to Wales
and Scotland, but the SRtRC
campaign runs all year round
anyway, using top footballers to
educate against racism
www.srtrc.org/
http://tinyurl.com/o94ahqu
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
October
2014
(contd.)
One World
Week (19
October – 26
October)
Stow Fair
(23 October)
Diwali
(Deepavali)
(23 October)
United
Nations Day
(24 October)
'An annual opportunity to join a
worldwide movement of people
taking action for justice locally
and globally' (OWW website).
The Theme for 2013 is ‘More than
Enough – aspire not to have more
but to be more’
This Country & horse fair is an
important event in the Gypsy/
Romani/Traveller calendar. The
fair has had a Royal charter since
1476.
One World Week
action kit – available
through the website
Important Hindu and Sikh
celebration, marked by fireworks,
festive meals and exchange of
gifts.
Diwali comes from the word
Deepavali, which means “rows of
lights”.
“It celebrates the family as the
microcosm of the universe, where
men and women have equality of
status, with each playing to their
own strengths. Family, relatives
and friends gather together to
offer prayers, celebrate and
distribute sweets to the less
fortunate." (ITV Cultural Diversity
Guide).
Sikh’s call the festival Bandi Chhor
Divas.
This is an occasion to highlight,
celebrate and reflect on the work
of the United Nations.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/okrnd85
http://tinyurl.com/pz8z9qg
www.diwali.nl/diwalisites.html
http://tinyurl.com/pprdad7
http://tinyurl.com/29nfpm9
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
October
2014
(contd.)
Bhai Duj
(brothers and
sisters day)
(25 October)
This is the last day of Diwali
November
2014
All Saints Day
(1 November)
This is a day that Christians
remember all Saints and Martyrs.
Bridgwater
Carnival (1
November)
The procession takes 2 hours and
usually attracts in excess of 140
entries! It attracts people from all
over the country.
"Bridgwater takes its Carnival
seriously, the origins are lost in
time but journalistic records refer
to the event in the 1860's. The
Carnival became officially
recognised in 1881. The event
starts in early October when local
clubs present a Carnival Concert
which has a two week run at the
Bridgwater Town Hall.
This event is a sell out and
provides much needed revenue to
support the local carnival clubs,
who in early November stage what
is probably the largest illuminated
carnival in the world."
(Carnival website)
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
This and other similar
carnivals take place in
several towns across
Somerset
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/o6u9jwx
http://tinyurl.com/nrj27mk
http://tinyurl.com/pxnzgv7
http://tinyurl.com/nc6hjrg
http://tinyurl.com/ovpmct9
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
November
2014
(contd)
Updated August 2014
Anniversary
of the
crowning of
Haile
Selassie 1
(2 November)
Important Rastafarian celebration.
Selassie abolished slavery and
worked hard to modernise
Ethiopia. People will take time off
work to attend gatherings
involving spiritual discussion
called reasoning.
http://tinyurl.com/pvrrkqs
Birthday of
Guru Nanak
(6 November)
Important Sikh celebration of the
birthday of the first Guru and
founder of the Sikh faith (14691539).
Anniversary
of the birth of
Baha'u'llah,
founder and
teacher of
Baha'i
(12
November)
Important Baha'i celebration –
followers refrain from work on this
day. Ascension of Baha'u'llah
marks the anniversary of the
death of the founder of the Baha'i
faith.
www.bahaullah.net/
International
Day of
Tolerance
(16
November)
The day is a focus for educating
people about the need for
tolerance in society and helping
them understand the negative
effects of intolerance.
http://tinyurl.com/plk3k7o
Anti-Bullying
Week (17 –
21
November)
Anti-bullying week aims to shine a
light on bullying, sending a clear
and positive message that it is
neither acceptable or inevitable in
our schools and communities.
http://tinyurl.com/qds4aqd
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/6pegx85
http://tinyurl.com/nsckja8
http://tinyurl.com/pyhche2
www.antibullyingweek.co.uk
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
November
2014
(contd)
Updated August 2014
Anniversary
for
Convention
on the Rights
of the Child
(20
November)
The Convention sets out the
necessary environment and
means to enable every human
being to develop to their full
potential. It calls for the provision
of specific resources, skills to
ensure survival and development
of children to their maximum
capability.
http://tinyurl.com/48wr9p
UK Disability
History Month
[UKDHM]
(22
November –
22 December)
This month is for celebrating the
lives of disabled people,
recognising our rights and the
past struggles for equality.
http://tinyurl.com/d79fxd4
International
Day for
Elimination of
Violence
against
Women (25
November)
16 Days of
Activism
against
Gender
Violence (25
November –
10 December)
This year’s theme is :
‘Celebrating our Struggle for
Independent Living: No Return
to Institutions’
The day is designated to raise
public awareness of violence
against women in all countries
around the world, at all levels of
society.
These 16 days are used to raise
awareness at the local, regional,
national and international levels
about gender based violence.
http://tinyurl.com/nlgunbs
http://tinyurl.com/nzcfsea
http://tinyurl.com/nuxt2co
http://16dayscwgl.rutgers.edu
This year’s theme is:
‘From Peace in the Home to
Peace in the World: Let’s
Challenge Militarism and End
Violence Against Women’
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
November
2014
(contd)
Saint
Andrew's Day
(30
November)
Many churches in the Bath and
Wells Diocese have St Andrew as
their patron saint. Wells
Cathedral dedicates to Saint
Andrew. He was the first apostle
and brother of Simon Peter.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/otcswcf
http://tinyurl.com/cjbp6aa
In Poland it is one of the most
characteristic folk celebrations of
the year, with futures told in wax.
December
2014
World aids
day
(1 December)
The international day of action on
HIV and AIDS which takes place
every year on 1 December.
http://tinyurl.com/dyf44du
International
Day of
Persons with
Disabilities (3
December)
The day is designed to increase
the understanding of issues
around disabilities and attention to
the dignity, rights and well-being
of persons with disabilities
http://tinyurl.com/orffv8w
Milad un Nabi
(birthday of
the Prophet
Muhammad )
St Nicholas
Day
6 December
This year’s theme is:
‘Break barriers, open doors:
for an inclusive society for all’
Celebrated on3/12 in Sunni
communities or 8/12 in Shia
communities
This day is celebrated in many
central European countries,
including Poland. Children are
visited by St Nicholas who gives
them presents and honey cakes if
they have been good.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/q7pdw89
http://tinyurl.com/qdm3alp
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
December
2014
(contd)
Bodhi Day
(8 December)
Buddhist celebration marking the
time Prince Gautama took his
place under the Bodhi tree,
vowing to stay until he reached
supreme enlightenment.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/no97mbo
http://tinyurl.com/383cvuc
International
Human Rights
Day (10
December)
This day marks the anniversary of
the presentation of the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights
Chanukah /
Hanukkah
16 December
– 24
December
Jewish festival of lights. The eight
candle menorah is lit. Chanukah
celebrates the triumphs – both
religious and military of ancient
Jewish heroes. The traditional
greeting is Hag Sameach (“Happy
Holiday”).
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
One of the most important
festivals celebrated by Chinese
and other East Asians on or
around December 22 when sun is
weakest and daylight shortest.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
The Dōngzhì
Festival or
Winter
Solstice
Festival
(21
December)
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/ofrhle2
http://tinyurl.com/omknqv6
http://tinyurl.com/on93zjo
http://tinyurl.com/pa7gbtm
http://tinyurl.com/pfy75fk
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
December
2014
(contd)
Christmas
(25
December)
Important Christian celebration:
Christian festival. St Stephen’s
day honours the first Christian
martyr.
January
2015
St Stephen's
Day (Boxing
Day)
(26
December)
Maghi (13
January)
Martin Luther
King Day
(19 January)
Vasant
Panchami
(24 January)
'Celebrates Jesus' birth and God's
giving of himself to humanity,
hence the emphasis on the giving
of presents' (ITV Cultural Diversity
Guide)
Sikh commemoration of a battle in
which 40 Sikhs (Chalis Mukte –
the 40 immortals) died for Guru
Gobindh Singh Ji.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/6rakh3
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/qehv8k4
Schools, Federal offices, Post
offices and Banks across America
close as they celebrate the birth,
the life and the dream of Dr
Martin Luther King JR. A time to
remember his fight for the
freedom, equality and dignity of
all races and peoples. A time to
remember the message of change
through non-violence.
Hindu celebration dedicated to
Saraswati – Goddess of Learning.
It is believed that this day is
Saraswati's birthday, yellow colour
is given special importance on this
day. Swaraswati is dressed in
yellow garments and worshipped.
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/nl2sx4a
http://tinyurl.com/pgobwby
http://www.holidays.net/mlk/
http://tinyurl.com/6zoe2r
http://tinyurl.com/7vzvs
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/qbgwdc2
http://tinyurl.com/obejrpx
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
January
2015
(contd)
February
2015
Holocaust
Memorial Day
(27 January)
Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual and
Trans (LGBT)
History Month
Tu B'shevat
(4 February)
Nirvana Day
(8 February)
Shrove
Tuesday
(popularly
known in the
UK as
Pancake
Tuesday)
17 February
Commemoration of all the
communities who suffered as a
result of the holocaust and Nazi
persecution (including Jews,
Gypsies, Gay people and those
with disabilities) and subsequent
genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda,
Bosnia and Darfur.
LGBT History Month celebrates the
lives and achievements of the
LGBT community
Updated August 2014
www.holocaust-history.org
http://tinyurl.com/ptlk8vz
http://tinyurl.com/5tzr27o
The E&D team can
provide contacts for
advice and support
(01823 356644)
www.lgbthistorymonth.org.uk
Jewish celebration of the coming
spring – also known as the New
Year for trees. A celebration of a
new year for trees rejoicing in the
fruit of the tree and the fruit of
the vine celebrating the splendid,
abundant gifts of the natural
world.
Buddhist observance of the death
of Buddha. Buddhists celebrate
by meditating or by going to
Buddhist temples or monasteries.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
www.hillel.org
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/plsslp4
It marks for Christians the day
before Lent.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/nbcxzj5
Shrove Tuesday recalls the early
Christian tradition of ‘shriving’ –
confessing of sins and receiving
absolution.
http://tinyurl.com/oojdck8
http://tinyurl.com/ols76t5
http://tinyurl.com/p2dprza
http://tinyurl.com/6he332
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
February
2015
(contd)
Ash
Wednesday
18 February
Lent, the preparation for Easter,
begins on Ash Wednesday, just
over six weeks before Easter. On
this day Christians start a period
of forty days of self-denial to
associate with Christ’s forty days
of withdrawal to the desert before
the final stage of his ministry.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
Chinese New
Year (the
Spring
Festival)
19 February
Important Chinese festival, held
between late January and mid
February:
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
"The spring festival celebrates the
earth coming back to life, and the
start of ploughing and sowing ……
2014 is the
traditionally lasts till the 15th day
year of the
of the lunar month and ends with
Sheep
the 'Lantern Festival'"
International
This day promotes the awareness
Mother
of linguistic and cultural diversity
Language Day and multilingualism.
(21 February)
March
2015
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/o96z5j7
www.chinese.new-year.co.uk
http://tinyurl.com/pjd3u4q
http://tinyurl.com/y8c7hfp
Fair Trade
Fortnight
(23 February
– 8 March)
An estimated 7,500 events took
place all over the country during
one recent Fair Trade Fortnight –
everything from Parades, Concerts
and Debates to Tea-Dances,
Fiestas and Family days.
http://tinyurl.com/7tpfwca
17 February
Mahashivaratri (Hindu festival)
http://tinyurl.com/qfp9hfv
Baha'i month
of Fasting
2 March – 21
March
Total abstinence from food and
drink between sunrise and sunset,
for those aged 15-70. It is a time
of spiritual reflections.
http://tinyurl.com/p4pn5as
http://tinyurl.com/auy69a
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
March
2015
(contd)
Purim
5 March
Hola Mohalla
(6 March –
this is
celebrated
over 3 days)
Holi
(7 March)
This is the Jewish Festival of Lots.
It celebrates the deliverance of
the Jews. The Megillah is read out
in the synagogue.
Sikh day when mock battles are
fought and martial arts displayed.
Hola Mohalla is the festival of
Punjab it is celebrated over 3 days
and retains the character of fun
and enjoyment that Holi has
always embodied. A community
festival that brings people
together.
Hola Mohalla means attack and
counter attack
Important Hindu festival held on
the last full moon day at the
beginning of spring:
'It is a fresh start, transcending
barriers. Members of all classes
(and often from other religions)
and sexes mingle, sprinkling one
another with cascades of coloured
powders and liquids. It is a day
when grievances are forgotten.'
(ITV cultural diversity guide)
Holi, the liveliest of all Hindu
festivals marks the end of the
winter and heralds the beginning
of the spring with the rekindling of
the spirit of life.
Updated August 2014
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
www.jewfaq.org/holiday9.htm
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/o5vlqev
www.aish.com/holidays/purim
http://tinyurl.com/pf5ua4v
http://tinyurl.com/nmguofm
http://tinyurl.com/6nnns
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
March
2015
(contd)
International
Women’s Day
(8 March)
This is a day of global celebration
for the economic, political and
social achievements of women.
UN
International
week for the
elimination of
racial
discrimination
(21 March is
the
anniversary
of the
Sharpeville
massacre in
South Africa)
21 March 1960 marked a tragic
day in the history of South Africa.
The incident was known as the
Sharpeville Massacre.
Naw Ruz
(21 March)
The most important Persian
festival and one which is not
confined to the traditions of only
one religious group. Beginning on
the first day of spring, the festival
celebrates making a fresh start
and lasts for thirteen days, the
final day being a special occasion
calling for particular ceremonies.
The United Nations calls on all
international communities to work
together to fight against racial
discrimination as well as to
commemorate this tragedy in
hopes of a better future for the
world.
'Now ruz' literally means 'new day'
and marks the start of the new
year, celebrated by more than
100m people in Asia including
Iran, Afghanistan, Tajikestan,
Iraq, Turkey, India, and Pakistan.
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/2v2mkr
Workshops focusing
on racism can be led
by Racial Awareness,
Inclusion, Support and
Education Project staff
(a partnership
between SCC and
CHYPPS). The
Equalities and
Diversity team also
coordinates an antiracist drama project.
Contact the E&D team
for details.
http://tinyurl.com/oowstfw
http://tinyurl.com/p4t5jkz
http://tinyurl.com/p73ww2j
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
March
2015
(contd)
April 2015
Updated August 2014
Hindu New
Year (Varsha
Pratipada) 21
March
The birth of a new year is a whole
new beginning and marks the time
when the world wakens from its
wintry slumber.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/q5onwcu
Ramanavmi
(28 March)
Hindu celebration of the birth of
lord Rama. The day involves
telling stories and going to
temple.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/pt3vyxv
Memorial of
Christ’s Death
3 April
The only religious festival
commemorated by Jehovah’s
Witnesses. They will attend their
local Kingdom Hall, listen to
sermons and discussions about
the meaning of Christ’s death
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/opssct6
Pesach
(Passover)
(4 April)
An important Jewish festival,
commemorating the rescue of the
Jewish people from slavery in
Egypt.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/o9s5mxx
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/o454ok7
Qingming or
Ching Ming
festival 5
April
A Chinese Festival celebrated on
the 1st day of the 5th solar term,
which is also named Qingming
(meaning ‘clear and bright’).
Its name denotes a time for
people to go outside and enjoy the
greenery of springtime and also to
tend to the graves of departed
ones.
http://tinyurl.com/nq2ctxs
http://tinyurl.com/phmhl7b
http://tinyurl.com/6d695
www.jewfaq.org/holidaya.htm
http://tinyurl.com/c6oso5k
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
April 2015
(contd)
Easter
Sunday
(5 April)
The most important Christian
celebration in the calendar,
marking the resurrection of Jesus.
The Friday before Easter is Good
Friday, which commemorates the
arrest, trial and crucifixion of
Christ and is a day of sombre
reflection for Christians.
Roma Nation
Day
8 April
Also known as Ustiben. This day
celebrates Romani culture and
commemorates all those
persecuted because of their race.
It has been organised by the
Gypsy Council in Britain since
2001.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/qyaw4mp
http://tinyurl.com/pgfynx8
The Traveller
Education Service can
offer advice and
support (01823
356644)
Baisakhi
(Vaisakhi)
13 April
The beginning of the Sikh New
Year. It is celebrated with lots of
music and dancing, Bhangra for
the men and Giddha for the
women. Competitions are held in
martial arts, music and poetry.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/o8qktgt
Yom Hasho'ah
(16 April)
Jewish Holocaust Day.
Shoah means catastrophe.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/q64q8vj
http://tinyurl.com/noepvel
http://tinyurl.com/4klfpj
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
April 2015
(contd)
May 2015
1st Day of
Ridvan (21
April)
Baha'i commemoration of the 12
day period in 1863 when
Baha'u'llah declared he was God’s
messenger. Work is suspended
on days 1, 9 and 12 of the
festival.
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/6umvhuq
http://tinyurl.com/p9afm43
http://tinyurl.com/p7y37kp
St George’s
Day (23 April)
St George is the patron saint of
Bulgaria, England, Ethiopia,
Georgia, Greece, Portugal and
Russia
Save the
Children
Week (April –
May)
Last Day of
Ridvan
(2 May)
A week aimed at raising money to
help change children’s lives.
http://tinyurl.com/onrv3
This is the most important Baha'i
festival. The 12 day period
commemorating Baha'ullah's
announcement of his claim to
prophethood and his departure
from Baghdad in 1863.
Ridvan in Arabic means Paradise.
Buddhist day to mark the birth,
enlightenment and death of Lord
Buddha.
http://tinyurl.com/ctmmeq
Visakha Puja
– Buddha Day
(4 May)
Homophobia
Awareness
Day (17 May)
This day is an opportunity to raise
awareness of the impact of
prejudice and discrimination on
the health and well-being of
lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans
people throughout the world.
Workshops can be led
by Racial Awareness,
Inclusion, Support and
Education Project
staff. Contact the E&D
team for details.
See Somerset’s
Religious Education
Newsletters for local
contacts (reproduced
below)
http://tinyurl.com/p5bzbc6
http://tinyurl.com/pzmgpsz
http://tinyurl.com/po7mlrq
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
May 2015
(contd)
June 2015
Shavuot
(24 May)
Gypsy Roma
Traveller
month (June)
International
Children’s
Day
(1 June)
Celebration of Moses' descent
from Mt Sinai with the ten
commandments. Plants and
flowers are used in the
decorations.
It is also known as the festival of
Weeks, where time is spent
learning more about the Jewish
faith. A traditional food eaten at
this time is cheesecake.
This event, first organised in
2008, will continue as an annual
event to celebrate the history of
Gypsies and Travellers.
Celebrated in many countries
(though not always on 1 June.
“The International Children's Day
was introduced in Poland in 1952.
It coincides with the beginning of
summer and it is usually treated
as a holiday, as it takes place near
the end of the school year.
Schools usually organize special
activities for the day of the
celebration, and the first week of
June is a time of festivities
organized in parks and
entertainment centers for
children. Parents usually buy small
gifts for their children.”
(Wikipedia)
Updated August 2014
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/44zt7
The Traveller
Education Service can
offer advice and
support (01823
356644)
http://www.grthm.co.uk/
http://tinyurl.com/pnxkhbo
http://tinyurl.com/ohn9by3
http://tinyurl.com/5oluyj
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
June 2015
(contd)
Appleby
Horse Fair
(4 June – 10
June)
The biggest horse fair in the UK.
It is one event in the Gypsy,
Romani, Traveller calendar.
Refugee
Week
15 June – 21
June
Refugee Week is a UK wide
programme of events which
celebrate the contribution of
refugees to the UK
Ramadan
(18 June – 17
July)
"The ninth month of the Islamic
calendar, during which fasting is
required from just before dawn
until sunset, as ordered by Allah
in the Qur'an." (ITV Cultural
Diversity Guide)
The Dragon
Boat Festival
(DuanYang or
DuanWuJie)
20 June
Ramadan is considered to be the
holiest period of the Islamic year.
A major Chinese festival , taking
place on the fifth day of the fifth
lunar month, usually in June or
July:
"Dragon Boat races are a feature
of this festival, which
commemorates the sacrifice and
death by drowning of a Chinese
poet and high-ranking official,
QuYuan.
The dragon boats are long and
narrow, paddled by teams of men
and women to the beat of a
drum."
Updated August 2014
The Traveller
Education Service can
offer advice and
support (01823
356644)
www.refugeeweek.org.uk
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/nfhpwdr
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/ydjfaa
http://tinyurl.com/qds4aqd
http://tinyurl.com/ydjfaa
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
July 2015
Khao Phansa
7 July
The first day of a three month
Buddhist Lent.
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
http://tinyurl.com/pqcdmmw
http://tinyurl.com/v3ls
Eid-Ul-Fitr
(end of
Ramadan)
17 July
Important Muslim celebration
taking place on the day after
Ramadan ends. It is a festival of
thanksgiving to Allah, involving
wearing the finest clothes, offering
prayers and fostering understanding with other religions.
Birthday of
Haile
Selassie I
(23 July)
Important Rastafarian celebration:
WOMAD
23 July – 26
July
World of music, arts and dance –
weekend festival at Malmesbury,
Wiltshire
http://tinyurl.com/pgvw6oz
Swindon Mela
July (date not
known at
publication)
Festival of South Asian culture.
http://tinyurl.com/3w7vwfd
"A Rastafarian is a person who
believes in the divinity of the
descendant of King Solomon, his
Imperial majesty Haile Selassie I
of Ethiopia as the reincarnation of
Christ as well as the embodiment
of the Godhead." (ITV Cultural
Diversity Guide.)
See Somerset’s
Awareness, Mystery
and Value website for
local contacts
(reproduced below)
Updated August 2014
http://tinyurl.com/nrv3lhu
http://tinyurl.com/7x4932p
http://tinyurl.com/qa85rxc
http://www.womad.org/
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
August
2015
Marcus
Garvey Day
(17 August)
Notting Hill
Carnival
(30-31
August)
Updated August 2014
Important Rastafarian day. The
aim of the celebration is to
encourage young people to aspire
for excellence in whatsoever they
choose to do in the game of life.
http://tinyurl.com/p87u8es
Caribbean festival. Notting
Hill's carnival is Europe’s
largest street festival.
http://tinyurl.com/osrpysj
http://tinyurl.com/nw5vryy
http://tinyurl.com/n8gckru
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
SOME USEFUL WEBSITES
NATIONAL WEBSITES WITH INFORMATION ABOUT WORLD RELIGIONS
www.bbc.co.uk/schools/religion
(information on religions and religious festivals)
http://www.reonline.org.uk
http://www.shapworkingparty.org.uk
LOCAL SUPPORT FOR TEACHING ABOUT WORLD RELIGIONS
Visitors & Places of Worship for Somerset and North Somerset schools (as currently listed on
Somerset’s Awareness, Mystery and Value website:
http://amv.somerset.gov.uk/resources/visitors-places-of-worship/ )
For all speakers, please make arrangements to cover their expenses and any fees directly with
the individuals involved. Most communities are happy for you to visit without charge, though
you may like to consider making a donation on a ‘per pupil’ basis.
BUDDHISM
•
•
•
•
•
•
Mike Keogh (Triratna Buddhist Community [Formerly FWBO]): tel. 07775 928722; email
[email protected]
Triratna (FWBO) Buddhists in Bristol: www.bristol-buddhist-centre.org
Paula-Boudica Brightwell: (Nichiren Daishonin) tel. 01458 443275 or 07952 409024.
The Amitabha Buddhist Centre in Bristol. Please contact: Kelsang Rak-Ma, Education Programme Coordinator: [email protected] or see: www.meditationinbristol.org
Lam Rim Tibetan: www.lamrim.org.uk/lrb_info.htm
Sakya Tibetan: www.dechen.org/centres/southwest/bristol.html
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
CHRISTIANITY
•
•
For Christian churches see: www.findachurch.co.uk/index.html
Mike Strange, manager of the RE:Quest website, may also be available to talk to staff or work with
pupils on using the site. Email: [email protected]
HINDUISM
•
•
•
Dhirashanta Das [ISKCON] Tel: 01566 786965 Email: [email protected]
Ganga Devi [ISKON] Tel: 01761 462161 Email: [email protected]
Hindu Temple, 163b Church Road, Redfield, Bristol, BS5 9LA .Tel: 0117 935 1007 – visits for pupils of all
ages. Email Panditji Kamlesh Vyas (the priest at the Temple) at [email protected] To
find out more about school visits to the Temple see: www.bristolhindutemple.co.uk/Community.htm
ISLAM
•
•
•
Imam Ilyaas Limbada, Yeovil Mosque, 8 Westminster Street / Clarence Street, Yeovil, BA20 1AE. Tel:
01935 412685. Best to email some suggested dates for your visit to: [email protected] The Imam
and his wife, Amina, are very pleased to receive school groups to visit the mosque and learn about
Islam.
Mr Farooq A. Siddique, Community Development Officer, Bristol Muslim Cultural Society, 404 Stapleton
Rd., Bristol, BS5 6NQ, 0117 952 1802. Email: [email protected] Website: www.bmcs.org.uk Office
opening times are Mon-Fri 9.30am to 5pm but please note that the office is closed during Muslim prayer
times, lunch-hour [1.30-2.30] and at weekends.
IAEP: The Islamic Awareness and Education Project is operational again. Monowara Gani and Alan
Duncan may be able to visit your school. Contact them via the website: http://www.iaep.org.uk/
JUDAISM
•
Bristol Progressive Synagogue, Bannerman Road, Bristol. Please contact Effie Romaine:
[email protected]
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
•
•
•
•
Updated August 2014
Exeter Synagogue, Synagogue Place, Mary Arches Street, Exeter, EX4 3BA. They prefer age 8+, and
charge £1 per pupil per visit. Contact Dr Paul Newgass, (President, Exeter Synagogue), who will also
visit your school to talk about the Holocaust, on: 01392 251529 or email: [email protected]
Robin and Arnold Kanarek Tel:01935 263667 Email: [email protected]
Mrs Jane Silver-Corren is available for assemblies / INSET. Tel: 01308 459320 or email
[email protected]
Sara Leviton is available for assemblies, working with children or INSET for staff. See
www.explorejudaismuk.co.uk for further details or contact Sara directly for prices:
[email protected]
SIKHISM
•
Gurdial Singh is available to visit schools and/or arrange visits to a Gurdwara in Bristol. Tel: 0117 956
6976 or 07981 130188 Email: [email protected]
Additional local contacts not in the AMV website
An offer of support from Leonard Daniels, a member of the local Jewish community
Leonard, who is a Jewish representative on Somerset’s SACRE, expressed an interest in supporting schools,
free of charge, and explained that he had worked for seven years training at Jewish Theological Colleges
and subsequently in Hebrew classes attached to Jewish communities in the UK. He offered:
1. Information to schools within the RE curriculum related to Judaism, reflecting the spectrum of the
various Jewish communities;
2. Support for Jewish students in schools throughout Somerset, for example additional Jewish education or
knowledge.
Contact details are:
Tel: 01823 352827
Mob: 07973 284203
Email: [email protected]
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
THE CHRISTIAN CALENDAR
This information was provided by a member of Somerset’s Standing Advisory Council on Religious Education, because
it was felt that the Christian festivals included in a previous year’s calendar did not fully represent the range of feasts
celebrated by Christians.
Like other religions Christianity rehearses, on a yearly cycle, important events and concepts of its faith so that each
year reads like a story. Unfortunately, the Christian (or Liturgical) year and the Academic year do not coincide so it
is quite difficult to present one within the other. However, chronologically, it is almost the same and because of this
Christmas has become, in the popular mind, the most important Feast. This is not the case as you can see from the
following:
The Christian Calendar
The most important feast in the Christian calendar is EASTER (or more accurately the Resurrection of the Lord). It
celebrates the most significant and most profound aspect of Christian belief.
The Friday before Easter is GOOD FRIDAY which commemorates the arrest, trial and crucifixion of Christ. It is a
sombre day of reflection for Christians though not a feast day as such.
These days have relevance for the general public because together with the Monday after Easter they form a four day
holiday from work and thus are of some importance to anyone living in Britain.
The Thursday of the sixth week after Easter is ASCENSION day on which Christ appeared for the last time to his
disciples and told them to carry on his work. Before their eyes he was withdrawn from them to heaven. Though not
a day off it is celebrated with special services (even the BBC normally broadcasts one).
Some six weeks after Easter is the feast of PENTECOST (formerly known as Whit (white) Sunday). This
commemorates the day on which Christ’s followers, still fearful of the future after the incomprehensible events of the
recent past, received the Spirit of God (the Holy Ghost – symbolised by a white dove) and found the courage and
inspiration to take up their missionary work to bring the Good News (Gospel) to the world. This feast is sometimes
known as the Birthday of the Church. Until recently Whit Sunday was also the Spring Bank Holiday – now it falls
near the late spring holiday.
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
1 November is ALL SAINTS day which celebrates all those men and women who are acknowledged as exceptional
followers of the Christian way. This day is preceded by what we know as Hallowe’en which is more widely known
than the feast day following. This tradition serves as a contrast to the holiness of the next day since it seems to
evoke the spirits of those who do not ‘rest in peace’. The Church may have introduced the feast to divert attention
from the (possibly) pagan one. It has become very commercialised and shallow but stands as a reminder that not all
who die are at peace.
Around the beginning of December ADVENT starts. This marks the beginning of the Christian or Liturgical Year and
is also the period of preparation for Christmas (somewhat like Lent)
The next big feast in CHRISTMAS which celebrates the birth of Christ and is another public holiday. It has become a
time to celebrate family relationships and for the exchange of gifts though this refers more to the Epiphany when the
wise men brought symbolic gifts for the Christ child.
The EPIPHANY on 6 January also marks the 12th Day of Christmas – the end of official celebrations.
LENT, the preparation for Easter, begins on ASH WEDNESDAY just over six weeks before Easter. On this day
Christians start a period of forty days of self denial to associate with Christ’s forty days of withdrawal to the desert
before the final stage of his ministry. This has some similarities to Ramadan. The service of this day contains a
ritual in which ashes, made from the burned palm crosses of the previous year, are applied to the forehead in the
shape of a cross as a reminder of our mortality.
Giving something up for Lent is quite widely recognised beyond the Christian community.
The Tuesday before Ash Wednesday is SHROVE TUESDAY. This has become well known as the day for making
pancakes. In the days before cold storage perishable goods would be used up before Lent because there was a lot
more fasting required of Christians during Lent than there is now.
However, the ‘shrove’ of the title refers to ‘confession’ that is confessing sins in preparation for Lent. To be absolved
by a priest was known as being ‘shriven’ in Old English.
25 March is the Feast of the Annunciation. Approximately 9 months before Christmas it celebrates the occasion on
which Mary was visited by an angel with the news that she would conceive by God’s will a very special son – Jesus
Christ.
This day is the original Mothers’ Day. The Sunday closest to that date was a celebration of motherhood. Now
commercialised Mothers’ day is fixed on the 3rd Sunday of March.
Diverse Somerset – opportunities for schools and other services to celebrate cultural diversity
Updated August 2014
The Sunday before Easter is known as PALM SUNDAY and commemorates Christ’s triumphant journey to Jerusalem,
cheered by crowds of people and hailed as a great prophet. As he approached the city, palm fronds were put on the
road before him as a sign of sign esteem (the red carpet treatment). Christians remember this day in the form of
crosses made of dried palm leaves which are displayed in their homes. This day is very poignant since within a short
time the same crowds who welcomed him as a celebrity were screaming for his execution!
The week between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday is known as Holy Week. During that week the Thursday is
Maunday (Holy) Thursday which celebrates the last meal Christ had with his apostles and the first time he asked
them to eat bread and drink wine in memory of him (Holy Communion). The Friday is Good Friday (see above).
Much of the secular calendar is based on the Christian year and has been absorbed into folk culture and still has
some relevance beyond the purely spiritual and therefore would be of interest to schools.
National Saints Days:
1 March 1
St David of Wales - should wear a daffodil or leek
17 March
St Patrick of Ireland - should wear shamrock (kind of clover)
23 April
St George of England (also traditionally Shakespeare’s birthday) - should wear a rose
30 November
St Andrew of Scotland - should wear a thistle
St Patrick’s day is probably the most well know and is celebrated wherever ex patriot Irish live especially in New
York.
There has also been a move in England to make more of St George’s Day.
These feast days are observed by the Church but have no special rituals attached to them.