July 2021 Holidays

7/4: Fourth of July

Every July 4th, Americans commemorate the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence being signed. From firework celebrations to BBQs to alien movie marathons (S/O Will Smith!)-- everyone celebrate the Fourth differently. Today we celebrate spending time with our loved ones and toasting to a more positive future!

7/13: National French Fries Day

While it’s not known when or why we celebrate this day, every July 13th unofficially marks the culinary holiday for this fun treat! Cool History: French Fries originate in Belgium! At least, the type of French Fries as we know them today. Many attribute this misnomer to back in WWII when American soldiers arrived in Belgium, tried the treat, and named them after the official language of the country at the time—which happened to be French!

7/14: Bastille Day

Although it’s technically a French Holiday, Bastille Day is recognized for both its historical significance and its symbolic meaning of resisting oppression. On July 14th, 1880, the Bastille towers in France were stormed by working-class members of the French Society. At the time, France was experiencing extreme disparities across social and economic levels, and the Bastille Towers had been a physical representation of the tyranny that the public had been facing. This event sparked the beginning of the French Revolution, and today is celebrated as the beginning of a new France.

7/18: National Ice Cream Day

It’s a real holiday! Beginning in 1984, it was federally decreed that the very third Sunday in July would be dedicated to celebrating this delicious dessert. How to celebrate: Treat yourself! Grab a scoop of your favorite flavor, and cheers to a fun-filled summer!

7/19: First Day of Eid al Adha

This year, the evening of Monday, July 19th marks the beginning of Eid al Adha, which will end on the following evening, Tuesday, July 20th. Eid al Adha is a significant holiday in the Islamic faith and is observed by Muslims all over the world. Traditional celebrations on this day include Eid prayers, commemorating Ibrahim’s sacrifice, donating to charity, hosting social gatherings, festive meals, and gift-giving.

7/26: ADA Anniversary

On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law, creating a landmark event in the movement for Disabled Rights and equality. The ADA has paved the way for increasing inclusion and opportunities for those who live with Disabilities, ensured legal protection against discrimination in the workplace, and enforces rights to equal access in public accommodations. Although there is still much more work needed in the fight for Disabled Rights and Disability Justice, today we celebrate this landmark of legislation by looking onward to a more inclusive and accessible future.

How to celebrate:

• Listen to, learn from, and support the Disabled community across all platforms.
• Recognize ableist privileges, and advocate for more equal opportunities
• Un-Learn ableist words and phrases in your everyday language
• Educate yourself on the history of Disabled justice movements, and the current lived experiences of those with Disabilities.
• Advocate for Disabled Rights, accessible spaces, and accessible opportunities.
• Follow these IG accounts for more information: @disablednoutdoors @disabilityreframed @diversability @cripcampfilm