Passover (Pesach) is a sacred Jewish holiday celebrated around the world each spring to commemorate the liberation of the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt. Passover begins before sundown on Wednesday April 1, 2026, and ends after nightfall on April 9, 2026.

This sacred holiday is celebrated with Seder feasts of traditional and symbolic foods, like matzah (an unleavened bread) and bitter herbs, the re-telling of the Exodus story and prayer. This holiday holds profound significance and a reminder of resilience and hope. It is a time to reflect on the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.

At RRC Polytech, diversity is one of our greatest strengths. The Polytech is home to thousands of employees and students from all different backgrounds – including those from the Jewish community.

Chag Pesach Sameach (Happy Passover) to all staff, faculty and students who celebrate this holiday! May this celebration hold joyous times for you and your families.

Photo: United Nations

April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), designated by the United Nations in 2007. This day focuses on promoting the rights, inclusion, and well-being of autistic people. It also raises public understanding of autism and emphasizes the importance of equal participation in society.

This year’s theme, “Autism and Humanity – Every Life Has Value”, highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting the dignity and worth of autistic individuals. It calls on all of us to support equal opportunities in every area of life and to recognize the unconditional value of every autistic person.

What is autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how the brain develops. It influences how a person processes information, communicates, and interacts with others. It can also affect behaviour and sensory experiences.

Autism is a spectrum condition, meaning it presents differently in each person. It is often described as a form of neurodiversity. This means autistic people may think, learn, and experience the world in unique ways – no two individuals are the same.

From Awareness to Acceptance

Over time, this annual observance has grown from a focus on awareness to a broader movement toward acceptance, understanding, and inclusion. Some organizations now refer to April 2 as World Autism Acceptance Day.

Awareness is about recognizing autism. Acceptance goes further – it requires action. This includes creating inclusive environments, removing barriers, and supporting autistic people so they can fully participate in all areas of life. When we focus on acceptance, we help ensure people feel valued, respected, and supported in the community.

Building an Inclusive RRC Polytech

At RRC Polytech, we are committed to creating an environment where all ways of thinking and learning are respected.

We continue to make progress in accessibility through technology, infrastructure, and support services. At the same time, we recognize there is more work to do. We remain committed to identifying and removing barriers so everyone has equitable opportunities to succeed.

This WAAD, we encourage our community to learn more, challenge assumptions, and help build a Polytechnic where every person can thrive.

How Can You Participate?

Join the Global WAAD Event

The 2026 WAAD global event is organized by the Institute of Neurodiversity (ION), a global, neurominority-founded and led organization, with support from the United Nations Department of Global Communications.

Event details:

• Date: April 2, 2026
• Time: 2:00 PM (UK time)

This virtual event features speakers from around the world, including advocates, educators, artists, and youth leaders. Topics include:

• Reframing the narrative: from cure to shared future
• Innovation and enterprise
• Arts, culture, and sportEducation and community
• Global youth voices

Register here to watch the Global WAAD Event

Explore Supports at RRC Polytech

• Accessibility resources for staff and students
• Student Accessibility Services
• Neurodiversity Working Group 
• Accessibility Garden: Community of Practice (Staff Forum)

Learn more about Autism

• RRC Polytech Library and Academic Services (books, videos, and research)
• About Autism | Autism Canada

Additional Resources

• General Assembly resolution proclaiming World Autism Awareness Day (A/RES/62/139)
• “Autism Awareness” Playlist – United Nations
• Post Secondary Digital Toolkit – Autism Canada
• Words Matter – Autism Canada
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI):
  • Neurodiversity Educational Resources
  • Embracing Neurodiversity at work
  • Autism Awareness/Acceptance

April is Celebrate Diversity Month – a time to recognize, appreciate, and deepen our understanding of the differences that make each of us unique.

First established in 2004, Celebrate Diversity Month encourages us to explore and honour the many ways we differ through race, ethnicity, culture, traditions, gender, sexual orientation, language, lived experiences, and more. It also reminds us of what connects us: our shared humanity. By engaging with diverse perspectives and ways of life, we expand our understanding of the world and strengthen our ability to build inclusive communities.

At RRC Polytech, diversity is one of our greatest strengths. The richness of lived experiences, identities, cultures, and talents across our community enhances how we learn, work, and grow together. This diversity is not incidental; it is foundational to who we are. It strengthens our learning environments, supports better decision-making, enriches workplace culture, and helps us better reflect the communities we serve.

Story Spotlight: Sharing Our Heritage

What better way to recognize Celebrate Diversity Month than by sharing an inspiring example from our own community?

On March 11, 2026, the library hallway of the Notre Dame Campus (NDC) came alive with colour, sound, and connection. Laughter echoed through the space as students and staff gathered to experience the student-led Cultural Inclusion Event: Sharing Our Heritage, part of Inclusion Week 2026.

Led by students from the Global Access: English for Academic & Professional Purposes (EAPP) program, with guidance from their instructors, the event invited the Polytech community to:

• Engage with diverse cultural traditions
• Interact with students from around the world
• Participate in fun, hands-on learning experiences

From the moment preparations began, the energy was unmistakable. Students carefully arranged vibrant booths filled with handmade posters, games, and cultural elements. Each display reflected pride, creativity, and inspiration to share a piece of home.

Students represented countries including China, Vietnam, Brazil, Thailand, Colombia, South Korea, India, and Japan, transforming the hallway into a global cultural journey.

Experiencing Culture, One Booth at a Time

Walking through the event felt like traveling the world in a single afternoon. Each booth offered something unique, with personal stories, traditions, and interactive experiences that invited curiosity and connection.

Some highlights included:

• Palm Reading (China):
  Students explored traditional interpretations of palm lines, including life, health, and love, sparking long lineups and lively conversations.
• Paper Kite & Flower Making (Vietnam & Brazil):
  Students shared the historical use of kites in parts of Asia, while an impromptu paper flower activity became a crowd favourite.
• Art, Food & Scenic Showcases (Vietnam, China, Thailand):
  Students presented traditional dishes and destinations, with one student creating live illustrations while explaining their cultural significance.
• Chinese Calligraphy:
  Participants practiced brush techniques and learned the meaning behind the characters they created – an exercise in patience, focus, and artistic expression.
• Cultural Games & Activities:
  From Chinese Mahjong, “24 Game”, and Tangram puzzles to Korean Gonggi, Indian Ludo, Japanese Kendo, and Canadian Crokinole, participants experienced how play connects cultures across the globe. Interactive digital games also tested knowledge of cultural, geographic, and linguistic facts.
• Cultural Traditions & Knowledge Sharing:
  Displays included Chinese zodiac readings, Vietnamese food and traditions, Colombian handicrafts, and insights into traditional Chinese medicine.

Why This Matters

This event was more than a showcase. It was a reflection of what inclusion looks like in action.

Every interaction offered something deeper than information. It created moments of connection, curiosity, and mutual respect.

Through student leadership, creativity, and collaboration, the Cultural Inclusion Event demonstrated how diversity can bring people together in meaningful ways. It created space not only to learn about different cultures, but to celebrate them.

A heartfelt thank you to the EAPP students, and the Global Access staff and instructors who made this event possible. Your initiative is a powerful reminder that diversity is not just something we talk about, it’s something we live.

Celebrating Diversity, Every Day!

While events like this are worth celebrating, diversity and inclusion are not limited to a single day or month. They are reflected in the choices we make and the ways we engage with one another every day.

Here are a few ways you can continue the celebration:

• Stay informed:
  Explore the EDIA Blog to learn about cultural observances, stories, and stay tuned for upcoming events, including Pride Month in June.
• Share your story:
  Contribute your traditions and celebrations through the Celebrate Everything initiative and help shape future features.
• Support inclusion efforts (staff):
  If you feel comfortable, consider completing or updating your Employment Equity Self-Identification in HRIS. This helps ensure our community is accurately represented and informs efforts to build a more inclusive workplace.

Celebrate Diversity Month reminds us that our differences are not barriers. They are strengths. And when we take the time to share, listen, and learn from one another, we create a community where everyone belongs.

Observed each year on March 21, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination reminds us that racial discrimination and injustice continue to affect people around the world.

The day commemorates a tragic event in 1960 in Sharpeville, South Africa, when police opened fire and killed 69 people during a peaceful protest against apartheid’s “pass laws.”

Since then, governments, international organizations, and communities have worked together through stronger laws, education, and open dialogue to address racism and move toward a world free from racial discrimination and intolerance.

What is Racial Discrimination?

The International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on December 21, 1965. It defines racial discrimination as:

“Any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life.”

Racial discrimination can appear in many parts of daily life, including in the workplace, education, and through systemic barriers.

Although significant progress has been made in addressing racism, much work remains. Racism continues to affect communities around the world, which is why ongoing awareness and action are so important.

This day reminds us of our shared responsibility to support equality and human rights.

For members of the RRC Polytech community, and as part of the broader Manitoba and Canadian communities, this day is also a call to action. Each of us can play a role in challenging racism and discrimination. By strengthening our commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA), we help ensure that everyone feels respected, safe, and able to succeed.

How Can We Stand Up Against Racism?

On this day, we encourage members of the Polytechnic community to take action against racism in all its forms. Here are some ways you can contribute:

• Educate yourself and others about racism
  • 6 things you need to know about ICERD (and CERD)
  • The Sharpeville Massacre | CMHR– Learn about The Sharpeville Massacre, apartheid, and the pass system.
  • Podcast: Eh Sayers Season 2, Episode 1 – Created Equal (explores how cognitive biases can perpetuate systemic racism)
  • Guidance: how can we fight racism? | OHCHR
  • Fight racism | United Nations resources, including What do you know? and What do you see?
  • CCDI Webinar: Systemic racism in the workplace: What is it and what is being done – A leaders panel
  • Anti-racism toolkit – Canada.ca, including:
    • Guide to courageous conversations on racism and racial discrimination
    • Anti-racism terminology glossary
    • Tips on how to be an ally
    • Tips on how to have courageous conversations
• Explore RRC Polytech’s Anti-Racism Initiatives
  • Anti-Racism at RRC Polytech
  • Anti-Racism: A Journey to Allyship (Employee Training)
    • This mandatory training supports employees in building knowledge and skills to advance anti-racism in the workplace.
    • How to access the training:
      HUB → HR Unlimited → My Portal → My Learning → Learning Library → More → Select the course → Click Enroll
  • Anti-Racism Action Committee – Consider joining the committee
  • Anti-Racism Learning Toolkit – Library and Academic Services

Moving Forward Together

We all have a role to play in eliminating racism and discrimination. By working together, we can build safer and more inclusive workplaces and learning spaces.

Thank you for your commitment to this important work.

Post written by Logan Brunette, Gender and Sexual Diversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech 

Every year on March 31, communities around the world come together to recognize Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV), which is a day dedicated to celebrating the lives, contributions, and resilience of transgender, two-spirit, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people. 

Unlike Trans Day of Remembrance, which honours those lost to anti-trans violence, TDOV is a celebration. It is an opportunity to uplift voices, highlight achievements, and acknowledge the ongoing work toward equity and inclusion.  

At RRC Polytech, we believe that visibility is a vital part of creating a safe, welcoming, and affirming learning environment for everyone. Today, and every day, we celebrate our trans community members: students, staff, faculty, and alumni. 

Why Does Visibility Matter? 

Visibility can mean different things. For some, it’s an act of empowerment, and for others, it may not feel safe or comfortable. Both experiences are valid.  

Trans Day of Visibility reminds us that: 

• Trans people deserve to be seen, valued, and respected in society and in our classrooms. 

• When people see themselves reflected positively, it increases engagement, confidence, inclusion, and ultimately strengthens Manitoba. 

• Visibility helps us identify where support structures, resources, and policies need improvement so that we can continue our work of pursuing EDIA in everything we do. 

RRC Polytech’s Commitments 

The Polytech continues to work toward ensuring that every student can fully participate in their education with dignity and respect. This includes: 

• Promoting inclusive teaching and learning practices 

• Ensuring access to gender-affirming campus services 

• Providing training and resources about gender diversity 

• Supporting student-led initiatives and community events 

• Cultivating a culture where all identities are welcomed and celebrated 

These commitments are ongoing, and RRC Polytech continues to listen, learn, and adapt based on feedback from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. 

To Our Trans Community Members 

We see you. 
We value you. 
We celebrate you today and every day. 

Your presence strengthens our college. Your authenticity is important; Your stories, talents, and perspectives enrich our community in countless ways. 

Thank you for being part of our campus and for everything you bring to it.  

How You Can Support 

Creating a more inclusive environment is a shared responsibility. Here are a few ways each of us can contribute: 

• Use people’s chosen names and pronouns without judgment 

• Learn about gender diversity and think about looking beyond usual media sources 

• Approach learning with a genuine open mind and curiosity 

• Speak up when you witness discrimination or exclusion 

• Celebrate trans joy and achievements and not only trans struggles 

• Engage with campus resources and events that celebrate 2SLBGTQIA+ 

Join Our Trans Day of Visibility Events 

Stop by our on-campus TDOV tables on March 31^st to celebrate Trans excellence, show your support, or learn more—all are welcome! There are going to be: 

• Stickers 

• Cookies 

• Colouring sheets 

• Library books 

• Pronoun pins 

• Information and friendly people to engage with—if you would like. 

NDC 

Tuesday March 31^st 12:00-1:00 P.M.  

Library Hallway C Building

EDC

Tuesday March 31^st 12:00-1:00 P.M. 

Roblin Centre Atrium (left side of the Security Services office) 

We often talk of “passing down” our values and cultural practices to the next generation. In truth, intergenerational knowledge also flows up. Mothers teach their daughters, but daughters can also teach their parents.

The daughters, mothers, grandmothers and other sexual outlaws photo exhibition showcases intergenerational exchanges that are guiding sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) activism around the world. The exhibition offers a glimpse into families’ lives and activists’ work in the Philippines, Bangladesh, and El Salvador.

The Manitoba Council for International Cooperation, in partnership with Inter Pares, is pleased to bring the exhibition to RRC Polytech for the month of March. It will be showcased by the Campus Store in close proximity to the healthcare classrooms. RRC Polytech is pleased to host the exhibit in celebration of International Women’s Day (March 8) and Inclusion Week (March 9-13).

We encourage you to visit the exhibition and explore these powerful photos and their stories. All faculty, especially those that work and teach in the health sciences, are encouraged to share this information and visit with students.

Note: The exhibit was launched last year in Winnipeg and was showcased at the University of Winnipeg’s Global College. The exhibition will end its Winnipeg tour at RRC Polytech. If you are interested in ‘adopting’ a group of photos or the entire exhibit to display in your classroom, please reach out to Francesca Creta (fcreta@rrc.ca) or Andrea Ayo (sustainability@mcic.ca).

March is International Women’s Month, and Sunday, March 8th is International Women’s Day (IWD) – a global celebration of women’s achievements and a powerful call to action for gender equality. 

For more than a century, International Women’s Day has brought people together around the world to honour achievements, spotlight ongoing inequalities, and motivate collective efforts toward gender equality.

The official theme for Women’s Day 2026 is “Give to Gain”, which speaks to a universal need to lend our support to gain advancement for women and girls. Learn more at internationalwomensday.com.

As part of Inclusion Week, RRC Polytech is hosting an International Women’s Day Panel Discussion & Networking Event on Wednesday, March 11 from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. in the Selkirk Lounge at the Notre Dame Campus. More details are below:

International Women’s Day 2026: Advancing Equality Together will be an inspiring morning dedicated to celebrating the leadership, resilience, and impact of women across our RRC Polytech community. Guided by the 2026 theme, Give To Gain, this event invites us to reflect on how generosity — through mentorship, advocacy, shared knowledge, and inclusive leadership — creates stronger institutions and more equitable futures. While all employees are welcome, this gathering is designed to center on and uplift women’s voices, experiences, and contributions across teaching, research, service, and leadership. 

To learn more and to register, please click here.

Explore these resources to celebrate IWD:

• Learn more about IWD and its mission: International Women’s Day
• Discover Canada’s commitment to gender equality: Women and Gender Equality Canada

Dive into inspiring stories and milestones:

• Women of Impact in Canada: Explore profiles of courageous women in politics, science, the arts, and more.
• Women in Canadian History: A Timeline: Celebrate the achievements of Canadian women across various fields.
• Gender Equality Timeline: Gain insight into key milestones in Canada’s journey towards equality.

The season of Lent holds deep meaning for many within our community. For those who observe it, Lent is a time of reflection, renewal, and preparation – a season devoted to mindfulness, personal growth, and acts of compassion. 

Lent is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and reflection, modeled after Jesus’ 40 days in the desert. The season invites Christians to spiritual renewal, repentance, and preparation for Easter through prayer, fasting, and acts of charity. 

In 2026, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 18, and concludes on Holy Thursday, April 2, leading up to Easter Sunday on April 5. 

Whether you participate in Lent through prayer, reflection, fasting, service to others, or simply by taking time for personal introspection, RRC Polytech honours the significance this season carries. 

Wishing all who observe a meaningful Lenten season. 

Wednesday, February 25 is Pink Shirt Day, a day to take a stand against bullying. 

Pink Shirt Day dates back to 2007, when a ninth grade Nova Scotia boy was bullied for wearing a pink shirt to school. Two of his classmates organized a schoolwide protest, asking all students, teachers and staff to wear pink in solidarity and to demonstrate there is no place for bullying. 

Since then, Pink Shirt Day has been observed nationally to remind as all to take a stand against bullying. The day encourages us to foster a kinder, more inclusive world by raising awareness and funds for anti-bullying initiatives. 

Show your solidarity this Wednesday by wearing a pink shirt – you can purchase one from the Campus Store!

Join us in the Indigenous Student Support Centre (F205, Notre Dame Campus) on March 20 as we honour Two-Spirit and Indigenous LGBTQQIA+ Celebration and Awareness Day.

Throughout the day, we’ll be screening a selection of Two-Spirit short films, offering opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate diverse identities and experiences. This drop-in event is open to all RRC Polytech students and staff. Come for a few minutes or stay for awhile, your presence and participation are warmly welcomed.

Films:

• Two Spirited – The empowering story of Rodney “Geeyo” Poucette’s struggle against prejudice in the Indigenous community as a Two Spirited Jingle Dancer. (6 min showing)
• Deb-we-win Ge-ken-am-aan Our Place in the Circle – Lorne Olson has a vision of Two Spirited people dancing, laughing, and smiling — spurring him to rediscover the strength of the past to better face today’s challenge. (22 min showing)
• Woman Dress – Pre-contact, a Two Spirit person travels the Plains, gathering and sharing stories. This film honours and respects Woman Dress, without imposing colonial binaries.  (6 min showing)
• Inkwo – In this animated adventure a future haunted by monstrous beings, Dove—a gender-shifting warrior—must harness ancestral medicine (Inkwo) to defend their community and restore balance to a fractured world. (18 min showing)

 A community Sharing Circle will take place from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM, creating space to gather, share, and connect over the lunch hour.