Days of significance: May 2026

April 29, 2026

Equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDI&B) is a strategic priority at Georgian. We’re dedicated to fostering a learning and working environment where everyone feels seen, heard and knows they belong through demonstrable, accountable and system-wide commitments to diversity, de-colonization, anti-racism, equity and inclusion. This days of significance calendar lists the days and months that are recognized within the Georgian community.

There are several dates each month that are recognized, observed and celebrated across Canada and internationally, and we encourage everyone to self-educate by referring to these great resources:

• Canadian important and commemorative days.
• UN International Days and Weeks.
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion diversity calendar.

Discover what’s going on in May, find ways to get involved and participate in events or activities, and through various resources.

May 4 to 10 – CMHA Mental Health Week

The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)  Mental Health Week is an annual national event that takes place during the first week in May to encourage people to learn, talk, reflect and engage with others on issues relating to mental health. 

The theme for 2026 is Come Together, Canada. Social connection is vital for overall health and well-being, yet many people are experiencing loneliness. This May 4 to 10, CMHA is inviting people across Canada to Come Together. It’s a call to spark small, everyday actions of connection, and to recognize the role we all play in supporting mental health through our actions and relationships with others. 

Together, we can strengthen mental health, build healthier communities, and help more people feel connected. 

History of CMHA  
 

Founded in 1918, the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) is the most extensive community mental health organization in Canada. CMHA can be found in hundreds of neighbourhoods across every province. They offer advocacy and resources aimed at preventing mental health challenges, supporting recovery and resilience, and helping all Canadians flourish and thrive. 

Find CMHA in your area  

May 5 – Red Dress Day

Red Dress Day is observed each year on May 5^th. It’s a solemn day of remembrance and a call for nationwide awareness of missing and murdered Indigenous women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People. Despite their powerful and sacred roles within their communities, Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals continue to experience disproportionate levels of violence and marginalization, with far too many becoming victims to injustice.

This day draws attention to the deep historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, including systemic and overt racism, gender-based violence, and the dismantling of Indigenous families, communities, and governance. Although Indigenous women make up only 4.3% of Canada’s population, they account for 16% of all female homicide victims and 11% of missing women.

Let’s stand in solidarity, honour their memories, and continue to advocate for justice and meaningful change.

May 10 – Bear Witness Day

May 10 marks Bear Witness Day, a National Day of Action dedicated to honouring the legacy of Jordan River Anderson and calling for the full implementation of Jordan’s Principle nationwide.

Jordan’s Principle was established in 2016 after the Canadian government agreed to address the inequitable distribution of resources allocated to Indigenous children across the country. These disparities created significant barriers to health care, education and social services for First Nations, Métis and Inuit. The principle affirms that no Indigenous child’s needs should be compromised in ways that restrict their ability to live a full and healthy life.

Since its conception, Jordan’s Principle has faced multiple tribunals for federal non-compliance. The most recent non-compliance order was issued in January 2025, and it is widely recognized that substantial work remains to ensure the principle is fully upheld.

On Bear Witness Day, individuals bring teddy bears to workplaces and schools and hold gatherings to raise awareness of Jordan River Anderson’s legacy and the ongoing barriers to the full implementation of Jordan’s Principle. The day calls on people off all ages to “bear witness” and advocate for the principle’s full realization, helping to ensure that every child receives the care and support they deserve.

May 11 – Moose Hide Campaign Day

The Moose Hide Campaign is a national grassroots movement founded by Paul Lacerte and his daughters, Raven and Sage. It’s a collective commitment to raising awareness and taking action to end violence against women and children. At the heart of the Moose Hide Campaign is the moose hide pin, grounding the work in traditional Indigenous ways of knowing and being.

Moose hide has long held significance within Indigenous communities. Its strength and versatility symbolize the resilience and resourcefulness of Indigenous Peoples. The Moose Hide Campaign invites individuals to wear a moose hide pin as both a personal commitment to end gender-based violence and an opening for meaningful conversations that contribute to a safer future. Wearing the pin signifies a pledge to honour, respect and protect our communities, and to speak out against all forms of gender-based violence.

The Campaign seeks to inspire change in attitudes and behaviours by promoting healthy masculinity and fostering relationships rooted in understanding, accountability, and respect.

May 31 to June 6 – National AccessAbility Week

National AccessAbility Week (NAAW) 2026 runs from May 31 to June 6, and aims to celebrate the contributions of Canadians with disabilities while promoting accessibility and inclusion.

National AccessAbility Week is a crucial initiative in the effort to create a barrier-free Canada by 2040, as mandated by the Accessible Canada Act.