Appreciating Diversity During the Holidays: It's About much more than a simple "Happy Holidays" Greeting Card

Guess who's not celebrating Christmas this year? Millions of people in the U.S..

Exactly. Tens of millions of religious Americans do not celebrate Christmas, and as followers of non-Christian religions (Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus, Jews) or as individuals without religious affiliation. Because many stores tap the cash value of Christmas with their plethora of Santas, ornaments and Christmas fanfare at your nearby mall, you can easily forget the depth of this diversity in America during this season. In fact, different types of events, both spiritual, religious, and tradition based, is celebrated in many different ways during these times.

It used to be that being inclusive means sending PC "Happy Holidays" greeting cards and changing Christmas office shares to "parties Holiday". Today, it is more than simply changing labels and titles. And 'how to use the time to spend with friends and family to build understanding and awareness of others.

Three ways to build your awareness and create an inclusive environment holiday

1. Learn about other celebrations. Carve out a little 'time by shopping online or a TV show to learn about the holiday celebrations of another culture in this period. Watch a TV special on other celebrations, do a Google search for a vacation, or examine the books at your local bookstore while gift shopping '. Share your knowledge with others, and use it as an opportunity to expand the conversation at parties and at the dining table.

2. Do expectations. Realize that people celebrate a number of holidays during this time of year, and some people choose to celebrate none. Be respectful of these differences by taking interest in the traditions of others and make them feel welcome. Do not be afraid to ask people what holidays they celebrate. Discover what makes this time of year that is special. What is the chance to know different cultures and religions and traditions that accompany them.

3. Mark your calendar and address book. If the calendar or PDA using does not list holidays like Kwanzaa, Hanukah, Ramadan and Diwali, find dates and register as a reminder. Many programs like Outlook allow users to add calendar dates for celebrations from different parts of the world, automatically, making this task quick and effortless. Take a few minutes to mark your address book with the holidays that people celebrate. When writing holiday cards, recognize their holidays, and include a small handwritten note acknowledging their celebration.

A note for employers:

Here are some more things employers can do to make their workplaces more inclusive during the holidays:

- Make sure your holiday party is not a Christmas party in disguise. Decorations and food should be general and not specific to any religion.

- Consider the New Year's Party instead of a holiday party. This type of party can get all on board with the corporate mission and vision for the new year.

- Post holiday greetings on your webpage and intranet for many religious holidays.

- Be respectful of these dates and plan special events and meetings around various holidays.

- Display a multi-cultural calendar to help all employees stay aware of important cultural events for the rest of the year.

- Be flexible with the needs of different employees.

- Encourage employees to share their celebrations through stories, decorations, and foods that may lead to their jobs.