Students have the opportunity to learn about the world’s cultures as the student government hosts International Week through Friday.
The Associated Students of the University of Utah Presenter’s Office, the Non-Traditional Student Board, Diversity Board and several other student groups have organized and funded a week of activities intended to increase student awareness of diversity on campus.
“The purpose is two-fold. Students can recognize the wealth of cultures that we have [in the U student body] and international students can recognize the culture we have here at the U,” said April Heiselt, ASUU non-traditional student service director.
The events started on Tuesday with an open house. Students were invited to go to the Union and meet student government officers. “We want to allow students access to ASUU. [We] want international students to feel welcome,” Heiselt said.
Today, ASUU is offering a variety of international foods and music. The Pie Pizzeria, European Connection, Bangkok Thai and the New Deli Palace will set up outside of the Union in the free speech area vending international foods. Starting at 10:30 a.m. several bands are playing for free, representing American bluegrass, as well as Austrian, Andean and Mariachi music.
The Fort Douglas Movie Theatre will be showing “The Three Caballeros” today from 4:30 to 6:30 and from 7 to 9.
This Thursday, Sept. 4, is International Movie Day in the Union Theatre and movies from Great Britain, China, India and Argentina will be screened starting at 10:30 a.m.
On Friday, Sept. 5, ASUU will offer free food and entertainment starting at 6:30 in the evening in the Union Ballroom. Samba Gringa, the Utah Pipe Band, the Polynesian Dance Team and several other companies are invited for performances.