To help lawyers recognize and honour the diverse beliefs and observances of their clients, while raising awareness for equity-deserving communities, the NSBS provides a monthly list of days of cultural, religious, and historical significance to support the diverse community of Nova Scotia.
Here is a list of some upcoming days of significance for the month of May, along with links to learn more about each day:
- May: Asian Heritage Month
- May: Jewish Heritage Month
- May: National Speech and Hearing Month
- May: Vision Health Month
- May: Sexual Assault Awareness Month
- May 4th – 10th: Mental Health Week
- May 5th: Red Dress Day
- Red Dress Day, officially known as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, is observed each year on May 5 in Canada. It is a powerful day of remembrance and advocacy that honours Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people who have been lost to violence. The red dress has become a symbol through the REDress Project, an art installation created by Métis artist Jaime Black. Empty red dresses displayed in public spaces represent the absence of those who are missing or have been murdered, while also calling attention to the ongoing crisis and the disproportionate violence faced by Indigenous communities. Red Dress Day is significant because it raises awareness, promotes education, and encourages action toward justice and systemic change. It also provides an opportunity for reflection, show solidarity, and support for families and communities affected by this violence.
- May 17th: International Day against Homophobia Transphobia and Biophobia
- May 18th: Victoria Day
- May 21st: Global Accessibility Awareness Day
- May 21st: World Day Cultural Diversity
- May 24th – May 30th: National Accessibility Week
- May 25th – May 31st: Anti-Racism Awareness Week
For further days of significance, consider reviewing the CCDI Diversity Calendar 2026.