Important dates for your diary – June

4-9 (dependent on moon sighting), Hajj, Islam

Hajj is the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It always takes place during the 12th month of the Islamic year, Dhu’al-Hijjah. Every practising Muslim is expected to make the journey at least once, as long as they are able. Once at the Masjid al-Haram, the Great Mosque of Mecca, pilgrims must perform a series of rituals. The pilgrimage is physically and emotionally demanding and a chance to cleanse oneself spiritually.

18, Autistic Pride Day 

Autistic Pride Day is held annually on 18 June. The day aims to bring together autistic people and celebrate their unique identities. It promotes awareness and understanding of autism and other forms of neurodiversity as ways of being, rather than conditions that need to be cured. Originally based on the gay Pride model, it uses the rainbow infinity symbol as its logo. Organisers make resources available closer to the day so that anyone can get involved, hosting an event or celebration to mark it. Go to www.autisticprideday.org for more information.

June’s dates at a glance

Religious/Cultural

2-3 –       Shavuot, Judaism
5-9 –       Hajj, Islam
6 –           Waqf Al Arafa, Islam
7 –           Saturday of Souls, Orthodox Christian
7-10 –      Eid Al-Adha, Islam
8 –           Pentecost, Christian
12 –         Guru Hargobind Jayanti, Sikh
15 –         Eid Al-Ghadir, Islam
15 –         Trinity Sunday, Christian
16 –         The Apostles’ Fast begins, Orthodox Christian
16 –         Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev, Sikh
19 –         The Feast of Corpus Christi, Catholic Christian
20 –         Litha, Wicca and Pagan
24 –         Nativity of Saint John The Baptist, Christian
26 –         Islamic New Year, Islam
27 –         Feast of The Sacred Heart of Jesus, Catholic Christian
29 –         Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, Christian

Awareness and Events

4 –           International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression
8 –           Race Unity Day
9-15 –      Men’s Health Week
12 –          World Day Against Child Labour
14 –          Global Wellness Day
15 –          World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
15 –          Father’s Day
15-21 –     Refugee Week
18 –          Autistic Pride Day
20 –         World Refugee Day
21 –          Summer Solstice
22 –         UK Windrush Day
23-27 –   School Diversity Week