Salisbury University hosts annual Culture Fest for students
Diversity and Inclusion
MARYLAND – Salisbury University is hosting its 6th annual Culture Fest for its students to promote inclusion. The Fest will include food, music, and diverse dialog, the question is, why are events like this so important?
Culture, and Community 2 things these students say you need on every college campus. Salisbury University’s Culture Fest is a way to bring people together according to Angela Cordoba-Flores, a member of the Organization of Latin American Students. “It’s just one big celebration for multicultural students on campus… Everyone comes from different backgrounds, we all work and think in different ways, and interacting with people in different cultures just makes us a better person all together.”
Robby Chin of SU’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion says students will have a passport so that they can take to each table and learn something about a culture they never knew before. “For people to be able to find that community piece. To know that who they are as a person matters, and has value, and without you, without you in the world, it just wouldn’t be the same… we want you to be students that are aware culturally of like what going on the campus, but also the world.”
Gelila Alemu is a member of the African Student Association or ASA, and says being of the minority can be hard, and visibility and education go hand in hand. “This is a predominately white institution, and having those offices will help students like me, like minority group, to feel included and seen… I’m not just, I’m not just black, I also have this multilayered culture within me. So when you just see me, don’t see that I’m just black.”
Organizers say they have something for everyone, students tell us what comes to mind when they think of Culture Fest. Gelila Alemu is Ethiopian, “Probably, either unity or togetherness.” Kelly Martinez, is a sophomore, and a member of the Latin Group and said, “Family.” Sanou Delaa, is Senegalese and also a member of ASA, “Entertainment, it’s just so fun. ” Angela Cordoba- Flores also said unity. Rachael Smith is a junior, and a member of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and she said, “Community.” Barbara Attipoe is a senior who is a member of the ASA and of Ghanian decent said “Celebration”, and added she likes the vibes. Organizer Robby ended with “Identity.” And at SU, culture creates community.
The event had over 200 students pass through, and the university says if you are interested in their diversity efforts check out their website for various clubs and organizations.
