Keep going. In the wake of the recent U.S. election, we know many people feel mad, frustrated, scared, and uncertain about the future. In conversations with our clients and partners—all of whom are already pursuing justice, safety, and equity—the common sentiment is fatigue. So, first, please take whatever time you need to grieve. Then, in the spirit of hope and solidarity, we invite you to join us in doubling down on committing to justice, even in the face of uncertainty. FUNKY BROWN CHICK remains committed to defending hard-won progress.

Remember Election Night’s bright, shining lights. Tulsa got its first Black mayor. LGBTQ+ activist Sarah McBride became the first openly transgender person elected to serve in Congress. And more. Let these inspiring victories remind us: throughout history, we’ve faced battles for reproductive justice, economic fairness, climate action, and beyond—and we’ve won. Join us as we commemorate and reflect on hard-won victories, drawing hope from the legacy of strength that has brought us this far. Let’s keep going.

November 1 – 30

Native American Heritage Month

Last month, here at the firm, we celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day. 

Now, as we reflect on recent electoral choices, November reminds us to consistently honor the original stewards of this land. Native American Heritage Month, officially recognized since 1990, celebrates the rich cultures and vital contributions of Indigenous peoples.

We encourage you to actively seek out and amplify Indigenous voices—and continue moving them to the front. You can start by watching GATHER, an insightful documentary on Indigenous food systems that connects traditional practices to modern health challenges. By engaging with Indigenous perspectives, we contribute to a more equitable dialogue about our nation’s past, present, and future.

National Family Caregivers Month

In the wake of recent political shifts, the vital role of caregivers in our society has never been more apparent. There are approximately 50 million caregivers in the US today. Celebrate the superheros holding our communities together. And spoiler alert: they’re mostly women. More than 60% of caregivers in the U.S. are female.

Why does this matter? We’re glad you asked. Female caregivers experience higher rates of stress, depression, and physical health issues compared to their non-caregiving counterparts. These health challenges can directly impact reproductive health, from menstrual irregularities to pregnancy complications. By supporting caregivers, we’re helping people live a life they deserve and helping to safeguard the reproductive health of a significant portion of our population.

The Caregiver Action Network is shouting from the rooftops this month, pushing for:

• Awareness of caregiver issues. Check out the video Unseen: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers and Why It Matters.)
• Celebration of caregivers (they deserve a parade, honestly)
• Education on self-identification (yes, you might be a caregiver without realizing it)
• More support (because caregivers need care too, check out the middle of this page on how you can help!)

This year’s theme, “#I Care…”, invites us all to reflect on the many ways caregiving touches our lives and communities. It’s a call to action for better policies, increased resources, and greater recognition of the invaluable work caregivers perform.

National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)

Looking to shake up the literary landscape? National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) might be your perfect canvas. This annual November challenge isn’t just about penning novels – it’s about amplifying diverse voices and driving social change through storytelling.

In 2022, NaNoWriMo engaged over 413,000 writers, including 85,000 students and educators (and those numbers have only grown!). More importantly, their participant demographics are reshaping the traditionally homogeneous publishing world. With only 37% identifying as straight (compared to 81% in traditional publishing) and higher representation of transgender, nonbinary, and disabled writers, NaNoWriMo is fostering a literary revolution.

At FUNKY BROWN CHICK, we’re all about using art to challenge narratives and change the world. That’s why we’re big fans of NaNoWriMo’s mission to empower writers from all backgrounds. Ready to add your voice? Learn more and sign up here. Because, right now, the the world needs your voice more than ever.

November 13 -19

Transgender Awareness Week

Transgender Awareness Week calls for more than passive recognition – it demands active allyship. At FUNKY BROWN CHICK, we’re all about leveraging our platform to amplify voices and spark meaningful change. This week is celebrated from November 13-19, in the week leading up to the National Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20. Actively support organizations like Audre Lorde Project, GLAAD and The Trevor Project. Because, at FUNKY BROWN CHICK, we know real change takes action, challenge yourself to take one new concrete action to support the transgender community. 

November 17 – 23

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week

Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week brings together agencies, groups, and individuals to educate the public, provide community services, and brainstorm solutions to reduce hunger and homelessness in our country.

To help honor it at FUNKY BROWN CHICK, we’re shining a light on links between hunger and reproductive health. Did you know that in 2023, about 18 million U.S. households faced food insecurity? Here’s the thing, though. Food-insecure women are also at higher risk for unintended pregnancies and STIs.

According to a 2021 meta-analysis published in AIDS and Behavior, pregnant women living with HIV in low- and middle-income countries who experienced food insecurity were 2.08 times more likely to have a low CD4 cell count, indicating a weakened immune system.

These stats show that by addressing food insecurity and housing instability, we’re not only meeting basic needs but also laying the groundwork for better reproductive health outcomes.

Want to make a difference? Check out the Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week website for local events and volunteering opportunities. You now have information needed to help tackle these interconnected issues head-on! Let’s get to work.

November 18 – 22

American Education Week

Even though the U.S. barred women from going to school until the mid 19th century, people fought and won women’s rights to education. Although the U.S. subjected Black women to state-mandated segregated schooling until 1954, Black women and girls now have access; though, admittedly, there is much work still needed to achieve equity and eliminate inequalities in the education system.

You can protect public education. Stay informed. Read NEA’s How Project 2025 Would Devastate Public Education, then strategize. Remember, every day is an election day. Support pro-education candidates in local, state, and federal races. Volunteer for campaigns. Contact your elected officials. Fundraise for your local school, join parent-teacher organizations, or run for your local school board.

Also, there’s still work to do, including in comprehensive sex education. While not the focus of this week, it’s the perfect time to advocate for age-appropriate sex ed in schools. This crucial subject empowers students with knowledge about their bodies, relationships, and reproductive health. Push for inclusive, comprehensive curricula that prepare all students for a healthy future.

Friday, November 1 

Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead is a tradition celebrated every year on November 1 and 2 across Mexico. It is a festival held to honor loved ones and ancestors who have died on the date when their souls are believed to return to Earth. Learn more about the diverse and varied traditions of this festival here. Check out this Los Angeles Magazine piece that uplifts the women who helped the city adopt Day of the Dead traditions.

Saturday, November 2

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

It’s International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. Did you know that in 9 out of 10 cases, people who kill journalists get away with it? 

This year, it’s hitting extra close to home. The conflict in Gaza has become a danger zone for reporters, with at least 128 journalists and media workers losing their lives since the war kicked off. That’s more than any other time since people started keeping track in 1992.

We can’t let the bad guys win. Journalists are out there every day, dodging bullets (sometimes literally) to bring us the truth. The least we can do is have their backs.

So today, let’s make some noise. Share stories from your favorite journalists. Call out injustice when you see it. And maybe give a little extra appreciation to the folks who keep us in the know, even when the going gets tough.

Thursday, November 7

Magic Johnson announces he is HIV-positive.

In 1991, basketball player Earvin “Magic” Johnson made shockwaves worldwide when he announced that he was HIV-positive. His public announcement and the trials and tribulations that followed helped to lessen cultural taboos around HIV/AIDS. Learn more about the amazing documentary on the days leading up to his historic public statement. Learn more about the seven people believed to be “functionally cured” of HIV/AIDS—or, more accurately stated, “in long-term remission with undetectable virus levels”. Their names are Timothy Ray Brown (The Berlin Patient), Adam Castillejo (The London Patient), The Düsseldorf Patient, The New York Patient (the first woman!!), and The Esperanza Patient. Until there’s a cure, get fired up and continue to support organizations caring for individuals with HIV/AIDS.

Wednesday, November 13

World Kindness Day

It’s World Kindness Day, and science is showing us that being kind isn’t just nice – it’s a brain-boosting, mood-lifting superpower!

A 2022 study from the Center for Brain Health found that after just 4 weeks of kindness training, parents became more resilient and their kids more empathetic. Something else: Research shows that acts of kindness can decrease depressive symptoms by 41%, improve cognitive function in older adults, and even lower blood pressure. In cruel political climates, remember to be kind—especially to yourself. Your brain (and the world) will thank you!

Friday, November 15

National Philanthropy Day

Today we celebrate National Philanthropy Day, recognizing the profound impact of fundraising and charitable giving. Also, remember: Nonprofits can (and should!) engage in nonpartisan voter education and advocacy. It’s not just allowed – it’s essential for a thriving democracy and philanthropic sector.

Saturday, November 16

International Day for Tolerance

Established by the United Nations in 1996, the goal for this day is to work toward greater intercultural understanding and recognize and celebrate diversity. Now nearly three decades later, we need this day more than ever.

Sunday, November 17, 2024

International Students’ Day

Commemorate International Students’ Day, honoring the Czech students who stood against Nazi oppression in 1939.

Monday, November 18

Sojourner Truth’s Birthday

Today we honor Sojourner Truth, born in 1797, while chattel slavery was still legal in the United States. A powerful voice for abolition and women’s rights, her life and work offer vital lessons for our ongoing fight for equity. As we face modern challenges – from voter suppression to attacks on affirmative action – Sojourner Truth’s legacy inspires us to speak truth to power, embrace intersectionality, and never stop fighting for justice. How will you honor Truth’s spirit today?

Tuesday, November 19

International Men’s Day

We’re seeing a shift away from harmful stereotypes like “Man up” and “Boys don’t cry.” Instead, there’s growing recognition of men’s diverse needs and experiences. There’s more awareness about the impact of gender norms on men’s mental health. Focus on:

• Improving men’s health (particularly their mental health)
• Tackling discrimination and disadvantage (and ditching toxic masculinity)
• Fostering positive gender relations
• Making the world safer for everyone

We love recent efforts to develop male-sensitive mental health interventions. Join the conversation and help end sexism.

Wednesday, November 20

Transgender Day of Remembrance

We must work towards a society where everyone, regardless of gender identity, can live safely and authentically. This includes supporting legislation that protects transgender rights, improving education about gender diversity, and standing up against transphobia in our communities.

Today we solemnly observe Transgender Day of Remembrance, honoring the lives lost to anti-transgender violence and discrimination. According to the Human Rights Campaign, the community experiences high levels of violence. The statistics can be heartbreaking, and they should also call us to action.

On this day, don’t just remember those we’ve lost, celebrate the transgender community, and recommit ourselves to the fight for true equality and justice for all.

National Entrepreneurs Day

Celebrate entrepreneurs today! From the person opening a franchise to someone operating a home-based business, today is the day to honor the resourcefulness and drive present in entrepreneurs. Next year, FUNKY BROWN CHICK is celebrating our 20th anniversary thanks to our team members, clients and community members from throughout the years. We’re summing everything up in an impact report. We can’t wait to share that with you in 2025. Get your champagne (or favorite mocktail) ready!!

The American Woman Suffrage Association was formed.

On this day in 1869, a group of five women and men founded this organization dedicated to working for women’s suffrage efforts on the state level—which actively did not support the right to vote for Black women. Learn more about Black women who were instrumental in the suffrage movement here.

Monday, November 25

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

November 25th marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, launching the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This campaign, running until Human Rights Day on December 10th, confronts the multifaceted violence women face globally. 

As our newly published “Three Acts of Justice” report reveals, violence against women extends beyond physical harm, encompassing structural and cultural forms that undermine reproductive rights. Join the fight for reproductive justice – download our comprehensive report to understand the past, present, and future of reproductive health in the United States and beyond.

Thursday, November 28

Thanksgiving

At FUNKY BROWN CHICK, we encourage using this day for reflection and education. Learn about Thanksgiving’s true history, support Native-owned businesses, or donate to Indigenous causes. We are closed on Thanksgiving (find out why); join us in working towards a more equitable future.

Friday, November 29

Black Friday, a.k.a. “Buy Nothing Day”

Resist the commercialization of tradition! Taking place every year on Black Friday, go against tradition today and buy …nothing. Instead, consider donating to an awesome sexual / reproductive health nonprofit on GivingTuesday. 

Saturday, November 30

Small Business Saturday

So you went against tradition Friday and didn’t buy anything. But you still have some holiday shopping to do! On the 30th, consider spending your hard-earned dollars to support small businesses that align with your values! We’re a small business too! Interested in our services? Learn more about our areas of impact here and how we can help you make an even bigger impact on the world. We also love referrals!

Shirley Chisholm’s Birthday

This day recognizes this influential advocate and barrier-breaker. Brooklynite Chisholm was not only the first Black American woman elected to Congress, in 1972, she became the first Black American candidate from a major political party to run for president, as well as being the first woman to make a bid for the Democratic presidential nomination. And, we can’t mention Chisholm without mentioning Kamala Harris! A barrier-breaker as well. She was the first woman and first person of color to hold jobs like San Francisco district attorney, California attorney general, and Vice President. We. Will. Keep. Pressing. Forward.

As we wrap up our November Days to Remember, please remember the “wins” we’ve made in the ongoing fight for equality and justice. If you work at a nonprofit who needs help during these challenging time, check out FUNKY BROWN CHICK’s services and areas of impact to find out how we can partner together for positive change.