Did you know there are many moments throughout the year when your company can shine a light on disability and accessibility?

The observances in our calendar are more than just dates – they’re an opportunity to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and make your workplace more inclusive. One great example is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated on December 3rd. It’s the perfect moment for inclusive activities and internal communication.

How can you use these days for inclusive education?

In our work with companies, we’ve found that educational newsletters work really well – especially when linked to relevant observances. For example, in September, we talk about hearing disabilities for the International Week of the Deaf, and in May, we focus on digital accessibility, tying it to Global Accessibility Awareness Day.

The calendar is also helpful when planning inclusive events. Take our webinar series “YES Talks” – if one of the sessions is scheduled in October, we might invite Krystyna Włodarek, a blind speaker who shares her inspiring story in connection with World Sight Day.

Get inspired by the YES Calendar!

This calendar is a practical and flexible tool to support inclusive action in your company — no matter its size, structure, or budget. And if you need help? We’re always ready to say YES. Let’s talk!

–––

JANUARY

January 4 – World Braille Day

This day commemorates Louis Braille, who lost his sight at the age of three and later created the tactile writing system that enables blind people to read and write. While technology is slowly replacing braille — currently, only about 10% of blind people use it — the system still plays an important role. This day is a great opportunity to raise awareness about tools that support blind and visually impaired employees, such as screen readers and accessible digital formats.

FEBRUARY

February 4 – World Cancer Day

An opportunity to raise awareness about cancer prevention, treatment, and support. According to the World Health Organization, cancers are the second leading cause of death globally, which shows how important education on this topic really is. People undergoing cancer treatment often face daily challenges and may qualify for disability status. Your company can mark this day by sharing educational content, organising a bone marrow donor day in cooperation with DKMS, or enabling free or subsidised preventive screenings.

February 23 – National Day for Combating Depression

This day is dedicated to mental health awareness, with a particular focus on depression — a condition that affects more than 280 million people worldwide. Depression can significantly impact quality of life, daily functioning, and ability to work, and it may also qualify someone for disability status. It’s a great opportunity to talk about mental health in the workplace, promote access to psychological support, and educate your team on how to support colleagues with depression so they can reach their full potential.

February 28 – Rare Disease Day

February 29 — the rarest day in the calendar — has been symbolically chosen as Rare Disease Day, which is observed on February 28 in non-leap years. The aim is to raise awareness about chronic and genetic conditions, many of which begin in childhood. According to the WHO, 6–8% of the global population is affected by a rare disease, and most of these conditions have a genetic origin. Although often invisible, they may lead to disability. It’s worth reminding your team that there may be colleagues around them who “look healthy” but are facing health challenges every day.

MARCH

March 1 – International Wheelchair Day

This day celebrates the positive impact that wheelchairs have on the lives of their users, enhancing independence and mobility. It’s a great opportunity to check whether your company’s physical space is accessible to people with mobility disabilities — and to think about how to improve everyday functioning for all employees.

March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day

This observance raises awareness about people with Down syndrome and their role in society. The chosen date symbolises the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Including people with Down syndrome requires the effort of society as a whole. It’s also about overcoming stereotypes and discrimination. People with Down syndrome can and want to work — all they need is a chance. Encourage your team to join the #LotsOfSocks campaign by wearing colourful, mismatched socks to show support.

March 26 – Purple Day (International Epilepsy Day)

Purple Day is a global initiative that your company can join to raise awareness about epilepsy — a condition that affects 50 million people worldwide. Unfortunately, many myths still surround it. Epilepsy doesn’t always involve convulsions; symptoms can also include disorientation, changes in skin colour, or short loss of awareness. The condition can lead to disability status, although it is often invisible. With the right working environment, people with epilepsy can lead professional lives. Beyond just wearing purple, you might organise first aid training or share educational content with your team.

APRIL

April 2 – World Autism Awareness Day

This day is dedicated to raising awareness about autism, challenging stereotypes, and promoting the inclusion of people on the spectrum. Autism is not an illness but a different way of perceiving the world. Understanding the diverse needs of neurodivergent individuals helps us build more inclusive societies and workplaces. Your company can mark this day by organising a webinar on neurodiversity, adapting office spaces (for example, with quiet zones), or joining the “Light It Up Blue” initiative as a symbol of support and openness.

April 7 – World Health Day

This day commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization in 1948 and draws attention each year to key health challenges. The 2025 theme calls for global action to ensure universal health care and equal access to treatment. The observance also supports the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to health and quality of life. Your company can mark the day by offering preventive health screenings, wellness workshops, mindfulness sessions, or group physical activities. It’s also a good time to highlight your ongoing efforts to support the health and wellbeing of employees with disabilities.

April 28 – World Day for Safety and Health at Work

This day promotes a culture of safety, protection of human life at work, and the elimination of health risks. It’s a time to reflect on how we can better protect the wellbeing of workers around the world. As a responsible employer, your company can organise workshops for managers to showcase workplace adjustments that enhance safety. It’s also an opportunity to highlight your company’s approach to providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.

MAY

May 6 – World Asthma Day (first Tuesday of May)

This day draws attention to the everyday challenges faced by people living with asthma – a chronic respiratory condition that causes bronchial spasms, shortness of breath, and restricted airflow. Managing asthma often means monitoring health, limiting activity, and dealing with the risk of sudden flare-ups, which can affect both life and work. Few people realise that asthma may qualify as a disability. Your company can show support by handing out green ribbons (a symbol of solidarity), organising first aid training, or collaborating with organisations that support people with asthma.

May 15 – Global Accessibility Awareness Day

This international observance is about raising awareness of digital accessibility and the needs of people with disabilities in the digital world. For example, making it possible for blind users to navigate websites using screen readers, or ensuring that sign language interpreters are present during webinars. In 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) will come into force in Poland – a key step toward ensuring equal access to technology. For your company, this is a great opportunity to review your corporate website and fix any accessibility issues.

JULY

Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride Month is a time to celebrate diversity and rethink the way we perceive disability. It’s about moving away from stigma and recognising that people with disabilities are full and equal members of society. Everyone can take something different from this month – including people with disabilities themselves, as well as their allies, such as your company. A great first step is to learn more about the diverse perspectives of people with disabilities. Their stories can be a powerful source of inspiration for building greater inclusion.

SEPTEMBER

September 23 – International Day of Sign Languages

This day highlights sign languages as fully developed, natural languages used by over 70 million Deaf people around the world. It’s estimated that there are between 200 and 300 different sign languages globally. In Poland, there are two: PJM (Polski Język Migowy – Polish Sign Language) and SJM (a manually coded system based on spoken Polish). Without access to these languages, many people are excluded from full participation in society and the workplace. Your company can mark this day by inviting a sign language interpreter to a webinar and teaching your team a few basic phrases.

September 28 – International Day of the Deaf

This important observance raises awareness not only for Deaf people but also for those who may experience hearing loss – according to the WHO, by 2050 as many as 2.5 billion people will be affected. Deaf individuals still face barriers to information, especially due to the lack of sign language content. It’s also worth noting that “Deaf” (with a capital D) refers to people who identify with Deaf culture and language, while “deaf” refers more generally to those with hearing loss. On this day, your company can raise awareness about inclusive communication and organise a workshop on basic sign language.

OCTOBER

October 1 – International Day of Older Persons

This day highlights the role of older adults in society and the challenges they face. In Poland, people aged 60+ represent 25.9% of the population – nearly 9.8 million people. The silver generation brings enormous value, yet nearly half of all seniors live with disabilities. Your company can support them by adapting workspaces, offering flexible employment options, or introducing mentoring programmes. It’s also a great moment to reconnect with retired employees and invite them to share their perspective in an internal newsletter or company event.

October 6 – World Cerebral Palsy Day

This observance draws attention to cerebral palsy (CP) — a permanent brain condition that affects movement, muscle tone, and coordination. Symptoms vary: some individuals have minor mobility challenges, while others are unable to walk, speak, or control their movements independently. Worldwide, more than 17 million people live with CP, and over 350 million are closely connected to someone affected. Your company can show support by organising an awareness campaign, encouraging employee volunteering, or sharing green butterfly pins – the international symbol of solidarity.

October 9 – World Sight Day

This day raises awareness about eye health and the challenges of vision loss. According to the WHO, 2.2 billion people around the world have visual impairments, including 36 million who are blind. For many, digital and architectural accessibility are key challenges. On this day, your company can share eye care tips with employees and review the accessibility of your corporate website and internal documents.

October 10 – World Mental Health Day

This is a time to reflect on the importance of mental wellbeing and how it affects our quality of life, relationships, and ability to manage stress. According to the WHO, one in four people globally will experience mental health problems during their lifetime, and depression is one of the leading causes of daily dysfunction. Stress, poor work-life balance, and constant pressure can lead to burnout. This is a great opportunity to educate your team about mental health, promote support for people in crisis, and consider reasonable accommodations such as flexible work hours.

October 22 – International Stuttering Awareness Day

This day is dedicated to raising awareness about stuttering – a speech disorder that affects over 500,000 people in Poland. Sadly, stereotypes often create barriers to employment and advancement for people who stutter. Active listening, patience, and not interrupting are essential to effective communication. On this day, your company can share educational materials or launch a campaign promoting alternative communication methods in the workplace.

October 29 – International Day of Care and Support

This day recognises the importance of care work and its role in supporting older adults and people with disabilities. Personal assistance enables people to make daily decisions, fulfil social and professional roles, and reduce the risk of exclusion. As our society ages, the need for care infrastructure becomes more urgent. Your company can use this day to raise awareness about caregiving – for example, by hosting a webinar or sharing educational materials about the role and impact of personal assistance.

NOVEMBER

November 13 – World Usability Day

This day highlights the importance of simple and accessible solutions that make life easier for everyone – especially people with disabilities. It’s not just about the digital world; usability also applies to public spaces, tools, and services. The theme “Make Life Easy” reminds us to remove barriers, not add them. Your company can mark this day by improving the accessibility of your websites and apps, simplifying internal processes, or gathering employee feedback on the usability of tools and systems.

November 14 – World Diabetes Day

This day raises awareness about diabetes – a major global health challenge affecting over 800 million people worldwide. The disease can lead to serious complications such as vision loss, kidney failure, heart attacks, or amputations. People with diabetes must monitor their blood sugar, follow specific diets, and maintain regular treatment – a daily challenge that requires constant attention. Your company can observe this day by organising workshops on prevention, offering on-site blood sugar testing, or promoting healthy lifestyles through group activities.

DECEMBER

December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities

This day emphasises the importance of equality, inclusion, and support for people with disabilities. Established by the UN in 1992, it aims to increase awareness and promote active participation of disabled people in social, economic, and cultural life. A more inclusive labour market is a key priority – especially since in Poland, only 3 out of every 10 working-age people with disabilities are employed. Your company can mark the day with educational campaigns, inclusive workshops for your team, initiatives that encourage openness about health, or by launching a more inclusive recruitment process.

December 10 – Human Rights Day

On this day, we mark the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948, which established the fundamental rights and freedoms to which everyone is entitled. Yet many people with disabilities still don’t know their rights – or where to seek support. In the workplace, for example, they are entitled to shorter working hours and additional breaks. Your company can mark this day by offering training on employee rights, promoting volunteer activities, and building a culture of equality and respect.

–––

Thank you for exploring our “YES Calendar”. We hope it inspires action for disability inclusion in your workplace. Every initiative – even the smallest one — matters when building a more conscious and diverse labour market.

Let’s keep saying YES, always! ❤️

– The YES team