February includes several significant religious observances and awareness campaigns that are meaningful to many employees, colleagues, and communities. Recognising these dates in the workplace is an important way to encourage inclusion, respect, and understanding. Here’s a guide to the key diary dates…
LGBTQ+ History Month – February
LGBTQ+ History Month is observed each February to celebrate the contributions and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people throughout history. Established in 2005, the month also addresses the historical marginalisation and under-representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in education, culture, and public life.
In the workplace, LGBTQ+ History Month offers an opportunity to promote visibility, allyship, and inclusion. Studio leaders can support this by sharing educational resources, highlighting LGBTQ+ role models, supporting employee networks, and reinforcing zero-tolerance policies on discrimination. Creating space for respectful conversations helps ensure LGBTQ+ colleagues feel safe, valued, and able to thrive at work.
If you’re looking for more information on how better to support LGBTQ+ individuals within your studio, Out Making Games is a brilliant organisation that provides resources, as well as a safe community – https://www.outmaking.games
Race Equality Week (February 2–8)
Race Equality Week is a UK-wide awareness campaign focused on advancing racial equality and challenging discrimination in everyday settings, particularly in workplaces and institutions. The week encourages honest dialogue about race, representation, and the impact of systemic inequalities.
For studio leaders, Race Equality Week is an opportunity to reflect on policies, behaviours, and decision-making processes. Actions may include reviewing recruitment and progression data, offering learning sessions on unconscious bias, amplifying diverse voices, and encouraging team leaders to actively champion racial equity. Meaningful engagement during the week can contribute to lasting cultural change beyond the campaign itself.
Find out more here – https://raceequalitymatters.com/race-equality-week-2026/
Nirvana Day (Buddhism) – February 15
Nirvana Day is observed by Buddhists and commemorates the death of the Buddha and his attainment of Parinirvana – final liberation from suffering and rebirth. The day centres on reflection, mindfulness, compassion, and the impermanent nature of life.
Ramadan (Islam) – February 17th to March 18th
Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam and is observed by Muslims through fasting, prayer, reflection, and charitable acts. From dawn until sunset, many adult Muslims fast from food and drink, focusing on spiritual growth and self-discipline. The month concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
Workplace inclusion during Ramadan may involve offering flexible start and finish times, being mindful when scheduling meetings or social events, and avoiding assumptions about energy levels or productivity. Simple awareness and supportive conversations can make a meaningful difference, helping Muslim colleagues observe Ramadan without disadvantage.
Maha Shivratri (Hinduism) – February 15th – 16th
Maha Shivratri, meaning ‘the Great Night of Shiva,’ is an important Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva and is observed through fasting, prayer, meditation, and night-long vigils. The festival symbolises spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and the overcoming of darkness and ignorance.
To keep an eye on all important EDI and religious dates – as well as games industry events – take a look at the Empower-Up guide here.
