US Employers Guide to Hung Kings' Temple Festival

Cultural diversity in the workplace is an asset that contributes to a rich and inclusive environment. The Hung Kings' Temple Festival, a significant celebration in Vietnam, is an excellent opportunity for US-based employers, especially HR, benefit, and compliance leaders, to foster cultural awareness and appreciation. This guide aims to provide insights into the festival, enabling employers to understand and respect this cultural observance within their teams.

Specific Dates to Keep in Mind

The Hung Kings' Temple Festival occurs on the 10th day of the third lunar month, usually falling in April.

Level of Importance

The festival holds high importance in Vietnam as it honors the country's legendary founders, the Hung Kings, and commemorates their contributions to the nation.

Background on the Holiday

The Hung Kings' Temple Festival is a national holiday dedicated to the worship of the Hung Kings, the first emperors of Vietnam.

The festival symbolizes patriotism, gratitude, and the preservation of national identity.

Traditional Practices and Specific Items

• Pilgrimages: Many Vietnamese make pilgrimages to the Hung Temple to pay respects to the Hung Kings.
• Ban on Entertainment: In some regions, there is a tradition of avoiding entertainment and merry-making on this day.

Specific Foods

• Chung Cake: A square sticky rice cake, similar to the one made during Tet, is often prepared for the festival.

How to Celebrate as a US Employer

• Acknowledgment: Recognize the festival in internal communications, emphasizing its cultural significance.
• Flexible Work Policies: Consider offering flexibility to employees who may wish to observe the festival with traditional practices.

Communicating the Festival to Your Teams

Subject: Observing the Hung Kings' Temple Festival - A Cultural Insight

Dear [Team],

As we approach the Hung Kings' Temple Festival on [specific date], we extend our best wishes to our team members who observe this significant cultural celebration. The festival holds great importance in Vietnam, honoring the country's founders, the Hung Kings.

We encourage everyone to embrace and respect the cultural diversity within our workplace. If you have any specific observances related to this festival that you would like us to be aware of, please feel free to share.

Wishing you a meaningful Hung Kings' Temple Festival.

Best regards, [Your Company]

Legal and Compliance

• Respecting Religious Observances: Ensure that workplace policies accommodate employees observing religious or cultural practices.
• Inclusivity Training: Foster a workplace culture that values and understands cultural and religious diversity through inclusivity training.

By recognizing and respecting the Hung Kings' Temple Festival, US employers contribute to creating an inclusive workplace that appreciates and celebrates the diverse backgrounds of its employees.