Eye on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is designed to share relevant information and upcoming events to support our commitment to promote equity and fairness among our physicians, scientists, trainees and staff members.

Native American Heritage Month

During the month of November, we’re proud to recognize Native American Heritage Month. This monthlong observance gives us an opportunity to reflect and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the Native American community, while also honoring the rich legacy, tradition, and cultural impact that Indigenous people have had in North Carolina and here at Duke.


In North Carolina, there are eight Native American tribes with nearly 80,000 members. You can learn more about our tribal communities here. Additionally, click here for details about the 28th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration on Saturday, November 18 at the North Carolina Museum of History.

EDI Spotlight: Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisory Council

Watch this video to learn more about the Sexual and Gender Diversity Advisory Council’s advocacy work—from ensuring clinicians use appropriate terms in medical records to partnering with law students to address legal issues such as denied insurance claims.

Faculty Diversity Facts & Figures Available Online

Each fall, the School of Medicine releases an updated version of Facts & Figures, highlighting the school’s latest facts, statistics, and key priorities. Check out the section on faculty diversity to get the latest on the school’s progress in recruiting and retaining a diverse group of talented faculty.

Call for Abstracts: MaryAnn Black Distinguished Health Equity Symposium

Abstract submissions are now open for the annual MaryAnn Black Distinguished Health Equity Symposium. The event will include poster sessions, and students/trainees, community organizations, researchers, and health care professionals are invited to submit work that highlights efforts to advance health equity in our community. Submissions close on November 27. 

Learn More

November Observances

All Saints Day

November 1


This day honors all of the holy people who have been canonized in the Catholic Church.

Dia de los Muertos

November 1


A Mexican holiday associated with All Saint's Day, celebrated by praying for and remembering departed friends and family members.

Anniversary of the Crowning of Haile Selassie

November 2


One of the holiest days in the Rastafarian year, this day commemorates the day when Haile Selassie ascended the Ethiopian throne. 

Veteran's Day

November 11


Veteran's Day is a United States federal holiday observed annually on November 11, honoring and remembering all those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Diwali

November 12-16


Diwali is the Hindu festival of lights, which typically lasts five days and is celebrated during the Hindu lunar month Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November). One of the most popular festivals of Hinduism, Diwali symbolizes the spiritual "victory of light over darkness, good over evil and knowledge over ignorance.

Transgender Day of Remembrance

November 20


This annual observance honors the memory of transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.

Guru Nanak Ji's Birthday

Thanksgiving

November 27


This day commemorates the birth of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak Ji.

November 23


A day of giving thanks for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year.

Upcoming Events

Health Disparities Research Works in Progress Seminar


November 9 • Noon-1 pm


Join REACH Equity for a virtual, interactive seminar featuring talks from junior and senior faculty investigators about current research and projects in development. All are welcome to attend.

Register

Grief Symposium


November 14 • Noon-1 pm


Join us for a series of conversations and stories with Duke Health team members who explore grief reactions while navigating the process and discussing rituals around loss.

Register
Visit the Duke Events Calendar for a Listing of EDI Events Across Campus

If you would like an opportunity to participate in discussions related to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, click here. "National Chats for Change" is a monthly webinar designed to facilitate important discussions around EDI on a national level and is provided through Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. It's available to anyone interested and generally meets from 12:00-1:00pm EST.

QuickLinks:

Sharing positivity!

Share something special that you or colleague did at work, or service to the community using this nomination form.


Upcoming Events

View a list of Diversity and Inclusion events on the Duke Event Calendar


Please email dukeeyediversity@duke.edu if you would like to suggest adding a holiday or event to our calendar of events.

Duke Eye Center Statement on Racism and Discrimination 
Duke Eye Center is comprised of a diverse community of physicians, scientists, trainees and staff members devoted to providing high quality care, innovative research, and first-class education.  We welcome and fully engage people of diverse backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives, and strive to provide a safe and secure space for all. We strictly prohibit discrimination and do not tolerate harassment based on age, education, skin color, disability, gender, gender expression and identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.   We are honored to serve Durham, the broader community of North Carolina, and beyond. Contact Us: DukeEyeDiversity@duke.edu