Did you know that 95% of organisations observe Christmas Day as a company holiday, even though 35% of Americans, or more than 115 million people, don’t identify as Christian?
December is often billed as the season of cheer. Yet, traditional year-end company “holiday” celebrations can sometimes leave certain employees feeling overlooked and disconnected.
82% of employees feel more valued when their companies celebrate DEI holidays. Additionally, companies that actively support DEI and acknowledge these holidays have seen a 23% increase in employee retention. (Source: Deloitte)
Start planning for a better, more inclusive maybe 2025.
With diverse teams that celebrate various traditions, the challenge lies in crafting celebrations that honour everyone’s beliefs, values, and preferences.
Planning inclusive holiday festivities enriches the workplace with shared experiences and cultural awareness.
Here are some winning strategies for current or upcoming managers:
1. Talk to your team
The foundation of any inclusive celebration is understanding your team’s needs. Begin by engaging employees in conversations about their holiday traditions, preferences, and any observances they value. A simple survey or an open forum can spark dialogue and ensure everyone feels heard.
For instance, some employees may observe Christmas, while others celebrate Diwali, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa. Understanding these differences sets the stage for celebrations that reflect the rich tapestry of cultures in your workforce.
2. How about a collaborative Holiday calendar?
Technology can play a pivotal role in celebrating diversity. Encourage your team to contribute to a shared holiday calendar, marking the days they hold special. Imagine learning about Holi from a teammate and discussing how it’s celebrated in India versus abroad. These conversations deepen relationships and provide insights into cultures beyond one’s own.
Today’s workforce is made up of folks from diverse cultural, ethnic, racial, political, and religious backgrounds. Because of these inherent differences, public holidays can be politically, socially, and personally contentious, and many organizations are hesitant to make bold statements or decisions about them. - CultureAmp
3. Decorations showcasing unity
Decorating the workplace is a chance to visually celebrate diversity. Instead of focusing solely on one tradition, incorporate symbols and colours from multiple cultures. For example, balance Christmas trees with menorahs, festive lanterns, and Kwanzaa-themed decorations.
Alternatively, opt for neutral, seasonal themes like winter landscapes or generic festive décor to create a welcoming environment for everyone. Adding educational notes alongside these decorations can further promote cultural understanding.
4. Flexible time-off policies
Not all employees celebrate the same holidays, and that’s okay. Adopting flexible time-off policies allows individuals to take leave for the days most meaningful to them, whether for Christmas, Eid, or Lunar New Year. This practice demonstrates respect for diverse beliefs and helps employees feel supported in balancing work and personal life.
5. Respect individual choices and celebrate by giving back
While celebrations are a wonderful way to build camaraderie, not everyone may feel comfortable participating in certain activities due to personal or religious reasons. Make participation optional and communicate that absence will never be held against anyone. This approach ensures inclusivity while honouring individual boundaries.
The holiday season also offers a perfect opportunity for collective generosity. Organise activities like food drives, volunteering at shelters, or participating in events tied to various cultural observances. For example, host a toy drive during Diwali or arrange a charity event inspired by Ramadan’s spirit of giving.
Food is a universal connector, transcending cultural boundaries. Host a potluck where employees can bring dishes that reflect their heritage. Pair this with storytelling sessions about the traditions behind the meals. Whether it’s tamales for Christmas, latkes for Hanukkah, or biryani for Eid, sharing food creates a festive atmosphere that everyone can enjoy.
6. Cultural awareness can be educated
Use the holiday season as an opportunity to educate employees about the diverse traditions within the team. Host workshops or invite guest speakers to share insights about different cultural celebrations. These sessions not only break down stereotypes but also promote mutual respect and understanding.
After the celebrations, seek feedback from your team to understand what worked well and what could be improved. Use these insights to refine future holiday plans, ensuring every year is more inclusive than the last.
Inclusive holiday celebrations are not parties, they’re an opportunity to reflect the organization’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Moving beyond traditional celebrations and creating experiences that reflect the unique richness of your team.
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