Did you know July is French-American Heritage Month?

July is designated as National French-American Heritage Month as a way to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Americans of French descent to the US.

A few facts of note:

·       The United States and France have shared a connection ever since the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which marked the birth of the U.S. two (2) years later. France and America signed the Treaty of Amity & Commerce, marking formal French recognition of America’s independence from Great Britain and providing the new country with French arms and treasure to help secure and further enshrine their victory from the crown

·       French military reinforcements were decisive in the Battle of the Chesapeake as well as the Battle of Yorktown, which effectively ended the Revolutionary War (also known as the American Revolution) and officially liberated the U.S. from colonial rule.

·        The French have contributed vastly to the design and growth of the United States. Their input can be seen in the layout of the Capital of the U.S., which was drawn by the hands of a Frenchman to the iconic Statue of Liberty, which was made in Paris and presented to the U.S. in 1881 as a gift to commemorate the alliance between France and the United States.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, or the “Feast of Sacrifice,” signifies the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim, known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism, to sacrifice his son, Ismail as ordered by Allah. It is one of Islam’s most important holidays.

Usually lasting three to four days, and celebrated by millions of Muslims worldwide, the holiday begins on the 10th day of the Muslim calendar lunar month of Dhul-Hijja, at the time of Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca (history.com-eid-al-adha).

For more information click here: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Eid-al-Adha

Independence Day

Independence Day, also known as the fourth of July, goes back to 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress, following a written declaration that stated that the American colonies were tired of being ruled by Great Britain and wanted to become their own country.

Written and signed by 13 people, including Thomas Jefferson, the second sentence of the declaration says it all: “All people are created equal and have rights that include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

For more information click here: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Independence-Day-United-States-holiday

July observances:

•  July 1 – Canada Day
•  July 4 – Independence Day
•  July 9 – Eid al-Adha
•  July 10 – Martyrdom of the Bab
•  July 11 – World Populace Day
•  July 14 – Bastille Day
•  July 18 – International Nelson Mandela Day
•  July 24 – Pioneer Day
•  July 26 – National Disability Independence Day
•  July 30 – International Day of Friendship
•  July 30 – Hijri New Year