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December 2009
Information from IN BRIEF may be used in other publications provided that American Conference on Diversity is appropriately acknowledged
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| DID YOU KNOW? |
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New Jersey is home to more than 8.5 million residents and more than 4800 faith organizations representing over 30 faith traditions.
According to the 2001 American Religous Identification Survey (The Graduate Center of the City University of New York) NJ residents identify themselves as the following:
- 37% Catholic
- 15% No religion
- 8% Baptist
- 6% Methodist
- 4% Christian
- 4% Presbyterian
- 4% Jewish
- 4% "Other"
- 3% Lutheran
- 2% Protestant
- 2% Episcopalian/Anglican
- 1% Muslim/Islamic
- 1% Jehovas' Witness
- 1% Mormon/Latter Day Saints
- 1% Pentecostal
We know our state's demographics are changing rapidly. As community's, schools and workplaces schedule activities, programs and events, it is helpful to know the faith groups represented in the community or workplace and be aware of their respective holidays and festivals. The The American Conference on Diversity Calendar of Holidays and Festivals is an easy to use, "at a glance" calendar and is available as a free download. The calendar is a great resource designed to encourage public awareness of the great diversity of reglious and ethnic groups that live in the United States.
Teachers may find the calendar helpful as a teaching tool. Employers will find it serves as a reminder of those religious observances that may result in employee absences. Particularly helpful is the alphabetical glossary of selected observances.
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| COMMENTARY |
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 Seasonality
Some folks say, "'Tis the Season." Some say, "Happy Holidays." The possibilities for a warm greeting during this time of year are extensive.
New Jersey's increasing diversity has brought us a multitude of faith traditions reflecting our many cultures, ethnicities and religions. The American Conference on Diversity publishes a Calendar of Holidays and Festivals reflecting many faiths and shares it with the public on our website.
During the last three months of the calendar year, holiday traditions are expressed in the faith and cultural traditions of the: Baha'i, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Mormon, Muslim, Orthodox, Protestant, Roman Catholic and Sikh.
The richness of the world's religious traditions is, literally, right in our own backyards, neighborhoods and communities.
We can acknowledge all faith traditions and the importance they hold for us in our individuals lives.
No matter which calendar we use or what faith traditions we follow, we can find time for peaceful thoughts and times of reflection to value our differences and celebrate the common bonds all people share.
Diane
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RECONNECTIONS 2009 |
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ReConnect with your Lead for Diversity Friends!
Last summer, we held our first Annual ReConnections Event for Lead for Diversity staff and alumni. Share your contact info to stay "in the loop." For more information, contact Henaz.
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| AS THE YEAR ENDS |
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Thank you to all of our supporters who helped us reach close to 5,000 adults and youth all across New Jersey through our education and training programs, conference and events. Our youth programs lead to Action Plans reaching 50,000 more students.
We appreciate and look forward to your continued support. We invite you to join us in creating inclusive communities. Be A Leader -- Lead through Action: Support the American Conference on Diversity. Make a Donation online to American Conference on Diversity. |
| HAVE YOU SEEN? |
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New on our Website . . .
Business Leaders Health Disparities Resource
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| UPCOMING EVENTS |
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Mark Your Calendar Now
Jan. 15 - Lead for Diversity 2009 Delegates Training - Contact Henaz
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