University of Tartu values differences by marking Diversity Day and Diversity Month in May

Diversity Day is celebrated in Estonia and across Europe on 13 May, the second Wednesday in May, and the whole month is marked as Diversity Month. The aim is to value the uniqueness of every individual and emphasise the importance of an inclusive, respectful and fair working environment.

The University of Tartu celebrates Diversity Month this year to support an open academic community in which different perspectives and experiences are a strength in research, teaching, and everyday communication. It is important to address diversity because people of very different backgrounds study and work at the university.

Diversity month encourages people to notice similarities and differences in one another, develop understanding and create a safe environment where everyone can realise their potential. In previous years, the university has organised diversity training sessions, discussions, and joint initiatives to raise awareness of equal treatment, inclusion and wellbeing, and introduce the university’s support options.

The Diversity Month activities support the objectives of the University of Tartu guidelines for equal treatment and gender equality plan 2026–2030, which aim to create an inclusive, safe and respectful learning and working environment and raise awareness of equal treatment and equal opportunities.

In 2026, university staff are welcome to take part in Diversity Day and Diversity Month again (please note that several activities are in Estonian). For example, they can:

• participate in the hybrid conference “Who gets a seat at the table?”, organised by the Estonian Human Rights Centre and Swedbank (Liivalaia 34, Tallinn) on 13 May. Register via the web form or follow the live stream on Facebook;

• take part in an online quiz;

• explore the book recommendations compiled by the Estonian Human Rights Centre;

• use the free Diversity Month toolkit in team meetings, teaching or everyday communication;

• initiate small joint activities, such as group discussions, group reading sessions, or themed meetings with colleagues;

• consciously pay attention to inclusive language use, accessibility and respectful communication.

To inspire others, share photos of equal treatment activities on social media using the hashtags #diversity, #diversityday and #diversitymonth.

Diversity Month is a good opportunity to reflect on how everyone can uphold the university’s values and help make the University of Tartu an even more caring and diversity-promoting working and learning environment.

See also the university’s equal treatment webpage.