As organizations expand their reach and hire employees from a variety of cultural backgrounds, the traditional, one-size-fits-all approach to holiday celebrations is no longer resonating with the increasingly diverse employee populations they serve.
At HRG, we emphasize the value of fostering inclusivity especially as it relates to the holidays. By acknowledging and celebrating a wider array of cultural and religious traditions, organizations can create a more welcoming environment that enhances community, camaraderie, and engagement within their teams while better positioning them to become a best place to work and to attract top talent.
Why It’s Important to Broaden Holiday Celebrations
Holiday celebrations are a powerful way to bring people together. They can serve as moments for employees to relax, bond, and enjoy time outside of their regular tasks. However, when these celebrations are tailored only to one group or tradition such as company-wide Christmas parties, employees who don’t observe those traditions may feel left out, leading to the phenomenon known as the December Dilemma (SHRM). This can unintentionally create divisions, reduce morale, and leave employees feeling disconnected from the broader organization’s culture.
Acknowledging and celebrating different holidays, whether religious, cultural, or secular, can help make every employee feel respected and valued. It’s not just about being politically correct; it’s about creating a workplace culture where everyone feels they belong. The next section highlights national and global companies that are taking steps to build a more inclusive culture around celebrating holidays and traditions.
Companies Leading the Charge
Several forward-thinking companies are leading the way by implementing more inclusive and diverse holiday celebrations, ensuring that no employee feels overlooked. Here are a few examples of companies that are getting it right:
Salesforce: Celebrating Cultures Around the World
Salesforce, a global leader in customer relationship management (CRM), has long been known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The company celebrates various holidays from around the world to reflect the diverse cultural backgrounds of its employees. In addition to traditional events like Thanksgiving and Christmas, Salesforce recognizes holidays such as Lunar New Year, Diwali, and Hanukkah. Employees are encouraged to share their unique traditions, which are showcased through educational events, cultural performances, and themed lunches. This approach not only honors the diversity of the workforce but also fosters an environment of mutual respect and curiosity.
Google: A Global Holiday Calendar
Google takes inclusivity a step further by creating a “Global Holiday Calendar” that lists a variety of religious, cultural, and national holidays observed by employees around the world. The company then tailors its celebrations to accommodate this wide array of observances. For example, during Ramadan, Google may provide special accommodations such as quiet rooms for prayer or iftar meals. Similarly, for the Jewish holiday of Passover, the company offers employees kosher food options and organizes events that reflect the values of that holiday. Google’s approach helps ensure that no matter where in the world employees are based, they feel included in the company’s cultural celebrations.
Accenture: Promoting Cultural Awareness Through Holiday Events
Accenture, a global consulting company, has a strong focus on promoting diversity and inclusion through its workplace culture. One of the ways they do this is by offering employees the opportunity to celebrate a variety of holidays that reflect their diverse backgrounds. Accenture hosts multicultural holiday events that include celebrations of Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Eid, among others. They also celebrate Pride Month and Native American Heritage Month, encouraging employees to take part in events and share their unique holiday experiences. These efforts show that Accenture values inclusivity, not just during the winter holidays, but throughout the entire year.
Why Holiday Inclusivity Matters for Your Organization
Celebrating a variety of holidays isn’t just about being inclusive; it’s also a smart business decision. When employees feel seen, valued, and respected for who they are, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and loyal to the company. A diverse range of holiday celebrations shows that your company is open-minded, welcoming, and genuinely invested in the well-being of all employees. It can lead to higher employee satisfaction, a more cohesive team, and even increased productivity.
Expanding holiday celebrations to embrace inclusivity also enhances a company’s ability to attract and recruit top talent. Prospective employees, especially those from diverse backgrounds, are drawn to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful culture. Highlighting inclusive holiday practices during the recruitment process showcases your company as forward-thinking and aligned with the values of equity and belonging, which are increasingly prioritized by job seekers. Moreover, inclusive celebrations serve as a tangible reflection of your organization’s dedication to diversity and inclusion, helping you stand out in a competitive job market.
Furthermore, in today’s interconnected world, where remote teams span across different time zones and cultures, it’s crucial for businesses to take a more thoughtful approach to holiday celebrations. By acknowledging the significance of various holidays and offering employees the chance to celebrate in their own way, companies are fostering an environment that transcends geographical boundaries.
How to Implement Inclusive Celebrations in Your Company
If you’re considering implementing more inclusive holiday celebrations in your workplace, here are a few steps you can take:
1. Survey Your Employees: Ask your employees which holidays are important to them. This can help you understand what they celebrate and how they’d like to see those holidays represented in the workplace.
2. Host Multicultural Events: Hold events or celebrations that represent different holidays. Consider educational activities, themed meals, or casual meetups that allow employees to learn about each other’s traditions.
3. Be Mindful of Time Off: Offer flexible time off for employees who celebrate holidays outside of the typical office calendar. Encourage employees to take time off for religious or cultural holidays without fear of judgment.
4. Create a Platform for Sharing: Use internal communication tools, such as newsletters or company intranets, to share stories, photos, and cultural insights. Highlight how employees are celebrating their holidays and encourage others to participate.
5. Lead by Example: Ensure leadership is involved in these inclusive celebrations. When leaders actively participate and acknowledge the diversity of their team, it sends a strong message of inclusion.
A Last Word on Inclusive Celebrations
Holiday celebrations are a powerful opportunity to build stronger, more inclusive workplace cultures. By embracing a broader range of celebrations beyond Christmas and recognizing the diverse cultural practices of your employees, you show that you value them for who they are—not just for what they do. It’s time to move beyond the idea that there is only one “correct” way to celebrate and instead embrace the richness of traditions that make your workplace truly unique. By doing so, you’ll not only create a more inclusive environment, but you’ll also contribute to a more connected, happier, and productive workforce.
If your organization would either like to foster a more inclusive workplace environment or take steps toward becoming a Best Place to Work in Kentucky, our team at HRG is here to help. Contact us today to start the conversation and explore tailored solutions for your organization.
