Celebrating Together with Positivity and Hope During Diwali

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is an annual celebration observed by millions of people worldwide that the honors the triumph of good over evil and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali, or Deepawali, is celebrated with different traditions by those who practice Sikhism, Jainism and some who practice Newar Buddhism. It is a 5-day festival that occurs each autumn, and customs often include bright clothing, fireworks, potluck meals, indulgent treats, art and more. Although personal customs and rituals may vary, the traditions of Diwali are all rooted in celebrating positivity and hope for a prosperous future. ​

​Showing respect to colleagues who celebrate Diwali is a great way to foster a supportive and inclusive culture. Here are some ways to support colleagues in the workplace who observe Diwali:​

• Educate yourself and show your respect for the holiday.​

• Avoid stereotyping – never assume that all people celebrating Diwali are the same or share the same beliefs. There can be significant variations in how individuals and families observe the festival/holiday.​

• Decorate your workspace with lights, diyas, rangoli or other festive items.​

• Invite your coworkers to share their experiences, traditions and stories of Diwali.​

• Organize a potluck or celebratory meal with traditional foods.​

​

Learn more about our culture of diversity, equity and inclusion, plus view open positions at careers.humana.com.​