This month, the IDEAs Council chose to discuss the importance of Three Kings Day, as well as reflect on our work during the past year.
For many Christians in Spain and Latin America, the holiday season officially ends on January 6, which is the 12th day of Christmas known as the Feast of the Epiphany, or Three Kings’ Day. It is believed that on this day, the three wise men — Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar — presented baby Jesus with symbolic gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
The 12th day of Christmas is known for its own unique traditions. Children celebrate Three Kings’ Day by receiving gifts and having sweet treats. Children in Spain and Latin America are instructed to leave their shoes by the door of their house so, like Santa Claus, the three kings can leave presents. Many families also leave gifts of salt or grass for the camels that the Three Kings were said to ride in on, similar to the milk, cookies and carrots kids leave for Santa and the reindeer on Christmas Eve.
In 2022, the IDEAs Council worked hard to focus on a wide range of topics that are inclusive of CMC’s diverse workforce. The IDEAs Council would like to say thank you to everyone who heard us and read our newsletter topics. In April 2022, we discussed Women’s History Month and our very own Yvette Brown spoke on the topic. We also learned about Ramadan, Pride and Juneteenth — a celebration now recognized by CMC as a paid holiday. We look forward to discussing new topics this year as we continue to break down the barriers that separate us.
We want to thank Yvette for her dedication and mentorship on the IDEAs Council and wish her well on her retirement. She was a strong leader that will truly be missed by everyone at CMC.