Reflecting on Loss and Building Workplace Compassion
National Homeless Persons’ Remembrance Day is observed annually on December 21—the winter solstice and the longest night of the year. This day honors individuals who have died while experiencing homelessness and serves as a call to action to address the systemic issues contributing to housing insecurity.
Looking for a quick, actionable way to acknowledge National Homeless Persons’ Remembrance Day? This post gives you a fast, DIY DEI tip you can apply right now.
Why This Holiday Matters
National Homeless Persons’ Remembrance Day is more than a memorial—it’s a moment to deepen workplace inclusion. Here’s how:
✅ It acknowledges that homelessness is a systemic issue, not a personal failing.
✅ It challenges us to recognize and disrupt the biases and policies that marginalize unhoused individuals.
✅ It encourages empathy and understanding within teams, fostering a more compassionate workplace culture.
✅ It prompts organizations to reflect on their role in advancing housing equity and supporting community-based solutions.
Observing this day reminds us that dignity, shelter, and safety are human rights—and that workplace values extend beyond the office walls.
One Inclusive Celebration Idea
Host a “Stories of Home” Reflection Circle.
Here’s how:
Invite team members to share personal reflections on what “home” means to them—beyond bricks and mortar.
Provide prompts like:
- “What does the concept of home represent for you?”
- “How has your understanding of home shifted over time or through life changes?”
- “What does safety or belonging feel like in a workplace?”
Make it optional, honest, and judgment-free. This is about compassion, not performance.
Then, close the session by identifying one collective action your team can take—whether that’s a donation, volunteer day, or conversation with a local shelter partner.
👉 Ready to explore more workplace-ready tips? Keep reading.
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Pause & Reflect
What role can your workplace play in challenging stereotypes about homelessness and supporting housing justice?
