- Jun 30
- 4 min read
A Summer of Celebration and Connection in the Twin City
By Kathryn Hildreth Montgomery, SHRM-SCP, CDP, CEBS
Summer in Texarkana brings to mind scorching-hot, sun-drenched afternoons, family vacations, and community cookouts. It’s a season of connection. But this year, more than ever, the summer calendar offers us a profound opportunity to connect on a deeper level. Several key holidays aren’t just dates on a calendar; they are vibrant celebrations of diversity, hard-won freedoms, and the ongoing journey toward equity and inclusion for all.
In a time when headlines can often feel divisive, taking the time to understand and celebrate these occasions is a powerful act of community building. It’s how we turn recognition into respect and awareness into action. These holidays are not about creating division; they are doorways to understanding. They invite us to learn the stories of our neighbors, to appreciate their journeys, and to recognize the beautiful diversity that makes our community whole.
While the Juneteenth holiday and Flag Day were observances earlier in the summer, the “summer of celebration” officially kicks off in Texarkana with a beloved US holiday – often just called “The 4th.”
Independence Day (July 4th): Freedom's Ongoing Promise. While we gather for barbecues and fireworks, the Fourth of July is a powerful moment to reflect on the aspirational ideals of freedom and equality upon which our nation was founded. For many, the promise of liberty was not immediately realized. This day is a reminder that the pursuit of "liberty and justice for all" is an ongoing journey, one that requires continuous work to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background, can truly experience that freedom. It calls us to consider who was, and still is, left out of that promise, and what more we can do to achieve true liberation for everyone.
Disability Pride Month (July): Celebrating Identity, Advocating for Access Throughout July, Disability Pride Month celebrates the diverse experiences, contributions, and resilience of people with disabilities. It’s a time to honor their unique identities, promote visibility, and advocate for full inclusion and accessibility in all aspects of life. This month challenges stigmas and champions the idea that disability is a natural part of human diversity.
International Non-Binary People's Day (July 14th): Honoring Gender Diversity This day brings important visibility to non-binary individuals, celebrating their identities and raising awareness about the unique challenges and triumphs of gender diversity. It’s a call for greater understanding, respect, and affirmation for all gender identities.
Nelson Mandela International Day (July 18th): A Legacy of Justice and Peace Observed globally, this day honors the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela, a beacon of anti-apartheid and human rights. His unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation serves as an inspiration for us all to act and make a difference in our own communities, advocating for a world free from discrimination.
August: Recognizing Heritage and Humanity
As summer winds down, August brings opportunities for us to acknowledge our rich ethnic and cultural heritages:
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples (August 9th): Honoring Original Stewards This global observance recognizes the invaluable cultures, contributions, and rights of Indigenous peoples worldwide. It’s a vital day to raise awareness about the challenges they face, celebrate their resilience, and commit to supporting their self-determination and the preservation of their unique traditions and languages.
World Humanitarian Day (August 19th): For Those Who Serve This day pays tribute to humanitarian aid workers who risk their lives in service to others and galvanizes support for people affected by crises around the world. It’s a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to offer compassion and assistance to those in need, regardless of borders or backgrounds.
Women's Equality Day (August 26th): The Fight Continues Commemorating the certification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the U.S. in 1920, Women's Equality Day reminds us of the long struggle for gender equality. It’s a moment to celebrate progress while recognizing that the fight for full equity for all women is still ongoing.
International Day for People of African Descent (August 31st): Celebrating a Rich Heritage This global day celebrates the rich culture, history, and contributions of the African diaspora, which is the dispersion of African people around the globe. It is celebrated out of respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of people of African descent, and to eliminate all forms of discrimination against them.
Why These Celebrations Matter Now More Than Ever
In these complex times, embracing the spirit of these holidays is not just about historical remembrance; it's about actively shaping our present and future. They are powerful weapons against division, and offer a pathway to empathy, mutual respect, and a sense of belonging.
By learning about these diverse cultural observances, participating when invited, and engaging in respectful dialogue, we reinforce the values that make the Twin City Multicultural Council—and our community—so special: the belief that when we understand and celebrate each other, we build a stronger, more resilient, and truly inclusive home for everyone. We’re all different and that’s okay!
Work with TCMC to represent the unifying spirit of summer every day, fostering a Texarkana where diversity is celebrated, equity is pursued, and inclusion is our reality.