Days of Awareness: May
Partners in Project Green shares Days of Awareness each month to spread awareness and start conversations. These days may have a social, historical, or sustainable significance worthy of our attention. These are just a small sampling of important days to acknowledge or remember. If we missed any days of importance that should be included, please share them with us.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is all of May and is an annual observance focused on raising awareness about mental health, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations about emotional well-being. It highlights the importance of understanding mental health conditions and supporting those who may be experiencing them. The month also promotes access to resources, education, and community support, while encouraging people to prioritize their own mental well-being and check in with others.
Government of Canada mental health resources: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/topics/mental-health-wellness.html
Visit https://cmha.ca/ for information on mental health, conditions and local supports
International Compost Awareness Week – May 3rd – May 9th
International Compost Awareness Week is a global initiative that takes place from May 3rd– May 9th, 2026, and highlights the benefits of composting and how it helps reduce waste. The week encourages people to turn food scraps and yard waste into compost instead of sending them to landfills, where they produce greenhouse gases. It also promotes composting as a simple way to improve soil health, support gardening, and reduce environmental impact at home and in communities.
- Visit the Compost Council of Canada: https://www.compost.org
- Check your local municipality’s waste or green bin program guide
- Explore beginner composting tips from environmental organizations like EarthDay.org: https://www.earthday.org
Cinco de Mayo – May 5th
Cinco de Mayo is observed on May 5th, 2026 and is a holiday that commemorates Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It is recognized as a cultural celebration in some communities and cities. Events include traditional Mexican food, music, and cultural activities that highlight Mexican heritage and history, often hosted by restaurants, cultural organizations, or community groups.
Mother’s Day – Sunday, May 10th
Mother’s Day is observed annually in May to honour mothers and maternal figures, including grandmothers, stepmothers, and caregivers who play a nurturing role in families and communities. Celebrated in many countries around the world, it typically falls on the second Sunday of May in Canada. The day recognizes the social, emotional, and cultural contributions of mothers, and is often marked by gestures of appreciation such as cards, gifts, and quality time spent together.
Endangered Species Day – May 15th
May 15th is recognized as Endangered Species Day, a time to raise awareness about the plants and animals at risk of extinction and the importance of protecting biodiversity. Across the world, thousands of species face threats from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and human activity. The day encourages people to learn about these species, support conservation efforts, and take action to protect natural habitats.
- Visit https://cwf-fcf.org/en/explore/endangered-species.html to learn more
International Day for Biological Diversity – May 22
International Day for Biological Diversity is a United Nations designated day that highlights the importance of protecting the variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals, and ecosystems. It raises awareness about the ongoing loss of biodiversity and encourages efforts to conserve species, restore natural habitats, and use resources responsibly. The day also recognizes the role biodiversity plays in supporting food systems, clean water, and a stable environment.
- Visit the United Nations Biodiversity page: https://www.cbd.int/biodiversity-day
- Explore local conservation efforts through your city or province’s environmental programs
- Read about biodiversity in Canada via Parks Canada: https://parks.canada.ca
About Days of Awareness
Since its launch in 2023, Partners in Project Green’s Days of Awareness campaign has become a monthly celebration of the days, events, and observances that matter most to our community. Designed to highlight moments of social, historical, cultural, and environmental significance, this initiative invites us to pause, reflect, and engage in meaningful conversations that extend beyond sustainability alone.
Each month, we spotlight a curated selection of awareness days to honour the diversity of our team, Members, and the communities we serve — fostering connection, inclusion, knowledge-sharing, and collective action across our network.
Read the May 2025 Days of Awareness article here and the May 2024 Days of Awareness article here.
If you have any questions about the Days of Awareness feature, please contact Charlotte Hung at charlotte.hung@trca.ca.