Food, music and fashion shows will fill the Union as international students celebrate their own and others’ cultures.
Beginning this afternoon, International Night, hosted by the International Student Council, will encompass all cultures on campus, including Americans.
“We are trying really hard to cover the whole world and all of its different cultures. We would really like to see a lot of American students come out and celebrate,” said Roland de Bresser, International Night chairman.
The student council planned the entire day, with little help from International Center staff, said Valerie Green, international student adviser.
Starting at 11 a.m., international music and food vendors will set up on the Union Patio, weather permitting.
“We’re hoping the weather is good tomorrow, but if not, it’s only one part of the day,” Green said.
At noon, the Japanese Taiko drummers will perform in the Crimson Underground, followed by screenings of international films.
To incorporate an educational component with the entertainment, 90-minute cross culture diversity workshops will assess different traditions to help replace stereotypes with facts, de Bresser said.
“We’ve encouraged students to pre-register, but I think we’ll be able to slide students in,” Green said.
At 1 p.m., international movies will screen in the Underground.
During the evening, the majority of the events will take place. The salsa bands Mambo Jumbo and Samba Gringa as well as American rock band Bentleigh will perform. Chinese, Greek, Korean and Bengali dancers will showcase traditional dances, while campus community members can learn Salsa and Irish dancing.
Students will also perform a fashion show, with traditional dress from around the world.
“We want to show that you don’t have to go very far to find a very diverse population,” de Bresser said. “This event is for everyone, and I hope it creates awareness and respect for diversity.”