For the first time, the Network and Affinity Leadership Congress—the only national conference focused on training employee resource group leaders—is being offered twice this year. Held in New York City in June, this two-day conference will also be held in Chicago Oct. 5 and 6, and will provide attendees with program ideas, organizational structure, case studies, strategy, and tools to take their networks to the next level. In addition to insightful sessions, the 2011 Above-and-Beyond Awards—which recognize individuals and groups that exhibit best-in-class network and affinity group leadership—will be presented at the event. For more information, visit the event page of DiversityBestPratices.com. To register, contact Meghan Donnelly at Donnelly@diversitybestpractices.com

September 15 – October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a period in the United States when people recognize the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the country and celebrate Hispanic culture. This month corresponds with the independence of eight Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile and Belize.

September 29-30 is Rosh Hashanah, also known as the Jewish New Year. It is a time of introspection, abstinence, prayer, and repentance. As part of the observance, the story of Abraham is read, the ram’s horn is blown, and special foods are prepared and shared.

October 1-31 is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual observance created to raise awareness about disability employment issues and to celebrate the contributions of workers with disabilities.

For information about additional diversity holidays, visit DiversityBestPractices.com.