Virtual Backgrounds
The virtual backgrounds raise awareness about the diversity of the Californians that we serve, including important cultural celebrations and historical events with great impact. Please click the “Download Background” button to ensure it is the correct size and format.
Featured Background(s) for April
- Autism and Neurodiversity Awareness MonthÂ
- National Arab American Heritage Month
- Holocaust Day of Remembrance
- Earth Day
- Genocide Remembrance Day / Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide
For additional virtual backgrounds visit the Archive.
For the 2026 Diversity and Inclusion calendar click here.
Autism and Neurodiversity Awareness Month
April is Autism and Neurodiversity Awareness Month. This month serves as an opportunity to increase understanding of autism and the many ways people think, learn and experience the world. It also reminds us of the importance of creating accessible and inclusive environments where everyone can participate and succeed. When we support accessibility and inclusion, we strengthen our workplaces and communities and ensure that people with different perspectives and abilities can contribute to improving California for all.
Autism and Neurodiversity Awareness Month Resources:
National Arab American Heritage Month
In April, the United States honors National Arab American Heritage Month. This observance recognizes the history, culture and contributions of Arab Americans across the U.S. California is home to one of the largest Arab American populations in the country, with communities that have contributed to the state’s cultural, civic and economic life for generations.
During National Arab American Heritage Month, CalHR joins communities across California in recognizing the contributions of Arab Americans and celebrating the diverse communities that continue to strengthen California’s workforce and public service.
National Arab American Heritage Month Resources:
Holocaust Day of Remembrance
April 14 is recognized as Holocaust Day of Remembrance. This date coincides with the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, when Jewish resistance fighters rose up against Nazi forces during World War II in response to deportations and mass persecution.
The uprising remains an important moment of remembrance and reflection on the Holocaust and the millions of lives lost. This observance honors the victims of the Holocaust and reminds us of the importance of standing against antisemitism, hate and discrimination.
CalHR joins communities across California in remembering those who suffered during the Holocaust and in promoting respect, dignity and inclusion in our workplaces and communities.
Holocaust Day of Remembrance:
Earth Day
April 22 marks Earth Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about protecting our environment. In response to the 1969 oil spill off the coast of California, early environmental advocates organized events to highlight the impacts of pollution and the need to care for our planet.
Today, Earth Day encourages education, action and everyday choices that support a healthier environment. California continues to play a major role in addressing climate challenges through investments in clean energy and environmental sustainability.
This April 22, CalHR recognizes California’s ongoing efforts to protect and care for our planet.
Earth Day Resources:
Genocide Remembrance Day
As reflected in Assembly Bill No. 1801, the Legislature established Genocide Remembrance Day as a time for all to reflect on past and present genocides—particularly those that have impacted communities who have found refuge in California, including, but not limited to, the Holocaust, Holodomor and the genocides of the Armenian, Assyrian, Greek, Cambodian and Rwandan communities. This observance takes place annually on April 24, during the week California recognizes as Genocide Awareness Week.
April 24 also marks Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide in California. Recognized in state law (Government Code section 19853.1), this day is dedicated to honoring the memory of those who lost their lives in the Armenian Genocide and recognizing the resilience of survivors.
The observance also reflects California’s long history as a place of safety. Between 1915 and 1930, many Armenians fleeing genocide found refuge and community in our state.
On this day, CalHR joins communities across California in remembering the victims, honoring the survivors and reaffirming our commitment to dignity and learning from history.
Genocide Remembrance Day Resources:
- Governor Newsom proclaims Day of Remembrance of the Armenian Genocide | Governor of California
- California Manzanar National Historic Site | U.S. National Park Service
- Bill Text – AB-1801 State holidays: Genocide Remembrance Day.
- Genocide in California | JSTOR Daily
- Armenian Genocide | USC Shoah Foundation
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The resources provided on this website are meant to educate the user on various DEIA-related topics; they are not to be interpreted as a directive from or policy of the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Always consult with your department’s leadership, human resource office, and/or in-house counsel before adopting any of the ideas expressed on this website. Many resources link to third-party websites that are not under the control of CalHR. CalHR is not responsible for the contents of any third-party sites, links in third-party sites, or any changes or updates to third-party sites.
