May brings a wide range of awareness campaigns and religious observances, offering valuable opportunities for organisations to strengthen inclusion, raise awareness and better support their people.
From mental health and accessibility to key moments in the Islamic and Jewish calendars, these dates provide a useful framework for planning internal communications, events and learning initiatives.
Here’s a look at the key religious and EDI awareness dates to know in May 2026…
Deaf Awareness Week (May 4-10)
Deaf Awareness Week is a UK-wide campaign dedicated to raising awareness of Deaf culture, identity and communication.
It’s an opportunity for organisations to reflect on how inclusive their communication really is. Simple steps – such as adding captions to meetings and videos, or increasing awareness of British Sign Language (BSL) – can make a significant difference. The week also celebrates Deaf communities and challenges common misconceptions.
LINK: https://www.signature.org.uk/deaf-awareness-week/
Mental Health Awareness Week (May 11-17)
Organised by mental health charity Mind, Mental Health Awareness Week puts the spotlight on the organisation’s work – with this year’s campaign theme being #NoMindLeftBehind. There are plenty of assets to share and resources to use, if your studio wants to take part and help raise money for this important charity.
LINK: https://www.mind.org.uk/get-involved/mental-health-awareness-week/#Downloadassets
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (May 17)
Observed annually on May 17th, IDAHOBIT raises awareness of the discrimination and challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide.
For organisations, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate visible allyship – whether through employee networks, awareness campaigns or leadership messaging. It also provides a moment to reflect on policies, culture and everyday behaviours to ensure LGBTQIA+ colleagues feel safe, respected and included.
LINK: https://may17.org
Global Accessibility Awareness Day (May 21)
Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), held on the third Thursday of May, focuses on digital accessibility and inclusive design. As workplaces become increasingly digital, ensuring that systems, platforms and content are accessible to everyone is essential. GAAD is a timely reminder to review digital experiences through an inclusion lens, and to recognise that accessibility benefits everyone, not just people with disabilities.
LINK: https://accessibility.day
Shavuot (Judaism) – May 24
Shavuot is an important Jewish festival marking the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Typically observed through prayer, study and community gatherings, it’s a time of reflection and learning. For employers, awareness of Shavuot can help support Jewish colleagues, for example, by being mindful of time off, religious observance and dietary practices during this period.
LINK: https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/uk/shavuot
Eid ul-Adha (Islam) – May 26-30
Eid ul-Adha, the ‘Festival of Sacrifice’, is one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar. Celebrated with prayer, charity and shared meals, it’s a deeply important time for Muslim communities. Employers can support colleagues by recognising the festival, accommodating leave requests and acknowledging its significance through internal communications.
LINK: https://www.islamic-relief.org.uk/giving/islamic-giving/qurbani/eid-al-adha/
Awareness dates can play an important role in creating inclusive workplaces. But their impact depends on how they’re approached.
Taking the time to recognise these moments thoughtfully, involve employee voices and link activity to longer-term inclusion goals can help ensure they resonate in a meaningful way.
For more guidance on building an inclusive calendar of events and embedding EDI into your organisation year-round, explore the latest resources and insights from Empower Up
LINK – https://empower-up.com/news-events/
