The holidays are in full swing and in the United States a large majority of people celebrate through giving thanks at Thanksgiving, and celebrating the upcoming winter holidays. However, it’s important for employers, employees, and the general public to be aware of the traditions of other people so that everyone can feel safe and celebrate the winter season in their own way.
Here are a few ways to make everyone feel welcome during the holiday season:
Diversify your Gift Giving
Most cultures around the globe celebrate with food and drink, but what you may not know is that each culture has different norms around food. Be sure to ask before gifting food or drinks, because your coworkers may feel pressured to reciprocate or have concerns about ingredients that are forbidden by their culture or religion.
Expand your Holiday Portfolio
Traditionally many people in the US celebrate the holidays by wishing each other Merry Christmas. While Christianity is one of the most popular religions in the world, a lot of other holidays are celebrated by other cultures during December and into the New Year, Hannukah, Boxing Day, and Kwanzaa to name a few. It’s a good idea to greet others with a more generalized greeting like “Happy Holidays,” to make sure everyone feels included.
Learn more love languages
Many holiday celebrations begin and end with warm greetings and hugs, and while hugs are often a sign of intimacy and love for one another, not everyone may be comfortable with them. We’re all more aware of personal boundaries after COVID and it’s important to remember not everyone is comfortable with close contact during the holidays. It’s important to ask for and receive consent before touching others.
We hope your holiday celebrations are fun, full of thanks, and safe. Have a great holiday season.
Love,
Your Language Connection