Special Emphasis Programs

 

The special emphasis observances listed here are established and commemorated throughout DoD. From time to time, Congress and the President may establish other occasions that may require action. Commanders are expected to publicize these events, establish policy that supports and allows personnel to have a reasonable opportunity to participate in these events.

Month: January

Dates: Third Monday

Observance: Martin Luther King, Jr., Birthday

Authority/comment: Public Law 98-144, Nov 83 (Federal Holiday)

Month: February

Dates: 1-28/29

Observance: African American History Month

Authority/comment: First Presidential Proclamation, Feb 76

Month: March

Dates: 1-31

Observance: Women's History Month

Authority/comment: Public Law 100-0, Mar 87

Month: April/May

Dates: Sunday to Sunday for Week Incorporating Yom Hashoah

Observance: "Days of Remembrance" for Victims of the Holocaust

Authority/comment: Public Law 96-388, Oct 80

Month: May

Dates: 1-31

Observance: Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Authority/comment: First Presidential Proclamation, May 91

Month: August

Dates: 26

Observance: Women's Equality Day

Authority/comment: First Presidential Proclamation, Aug 73

Month: September/October

Dates: 15 Sep - 15 Oct

Observance: National Hispanic Heritage Month

Authority/comment: Public Law 100-402, Aug 88

Month: October
Dates: 1-31

Observance: National Disability Employment Awareness Month
Authority/comment: Public Law 100-630, Oct 88

Month: November

Dates: 1-30

Observance: National Native American Indian Heritage Month

Authority/comment: Public Law 102-188, Mar 92