Your Guide to an Inclusive Holiday Season
Because everyone celebrates differently.
by ELIZA CARDILLO ★ NOVEMBER 17, 2022
It's easy to forget that your "normal" is not universal—especially when it comes to your cultural traditions and norms. In college, and sometimes even more so outside of it, we are immersed in a sea of diversity. Around the holidays specifically, this becomes quite clear. Yet, despite such differences, there are ways to radiate inclusivity.
This could mean some of your best friends are Catholic, Hindu, or Jewish. It could also mean that some of your sorority sisters are children of first-generation immigrants or maybe have a detached connection to their culture. Regardless of the characteristics of your peers, it is critical to be conscious of other cultures and religions.
Part of encouraging inclusivity means keeping yourself and your friends in check. Many people assume that October 31st is the commencement of the holiday season. However, it's important to note that some people start to celebrate or participate earlier, during holidays such as Yom Kippur or Diwali.
A great way to kick off the year's colder months is to have some sort of "Friendsgiving." This, by nature, can be an inclusive celebration. The origins of Thanksgiving are quite controversial for many. It is critical to recognize that the picture books in elementary school showcasing pilgrims and Native Americans sitting arm-in-arm like one big happy family were probably unrealistic.
Friendsgiving can simply be a neutral, shared meal with your friends. To ensure everyone has options they like and that represent their traditions, suggest that each person bring an entree or side dish to go with their meal. This provides no overlap of some friends at a community Kwanzaa celebration, and others are gathered with their family for Shabbat.
In addition to being conscious of overlapping holidays, many holiday festivities occur with our friends, coworkers, and families. These can be tweaked slightly to be non-religious and not related to a singular holiday. Secret Santa, for example, can simply be called a gift swap. Try out a white elephant or a Yankee swap for a more humorous route.
Another suggestion is to be a bit more inclusive when decorating for a holiday party; you can never go wrong with some string lights and candles. Be mindful of food-related restrictions at these parties as well, by ensuring that there are options like kosher, halal, etc.. Your party will be way more fun if every guest feels included.
The holiday season is not always as glamorous as it seems. It's a highly vulnerable and lonely time for many people despite what the media shows us. So, make your best effort in the upcoming months to embrace all cultures and religious practices, whether in your everyday life or during special events.
One last thing: It is absolutely okay to ask questions. I am sure your friends would rather you ask questions and become educated than be clueless about their practices during this time of year. We must all work together to create a more caring environment, and now is a great time to start. Have a happy and healthy holiday season <3
Cover Photo Credit: Pinterest