BY JANELLE BECK
Contributing Writer
A community of families and faculty from Pine Hills Elementary came out on Thursday night to celebrate the diverse cultures represented at the school.
The school’s gymnasium was full of students and their families for Multi-Cultural Night. Attendees of the event participated in face painting, coloring tables, henna tattoos, and a book table that featured books about different cultures.
“It’s great for the kids,” said Maria Vareas, a student’s mother. “They get to learn about other cultures. It’s great that they can be aware that even though they all come from other cultures, they are all the same.”
People started to trickle in at 6 p.m. and parents and faculty mingled while students played in the gymnasium, took advantage of the activities, and danced on the dance floor. Kingsean was the DJ for the evening and played music to keep the energy high throughout the event.
“It’s for the kids, it’s family-oriented,” said Kingsean while students were singing and dancing on the dance floor. The music consisted of current songs that students knew and it provided the opportunity for them to convince their friends and family to dance with them.
The room was decorated with various country flags hanging along the wall. Tables were decorated with tablecloths and distinguished by pictures of different countries.
“It’s nice to know a different culture, and learn and try new foods,” said Wasan Junaah, an Iraqi mother whose son attends the school. Junaah explained she was excited to attend the event that celebrated different cultures.
Food was provided by a potluck at the event. Families brought many different foods from all different cultures for everyone to try out and enjoy.
After dinner, all students had the opportunity to try their hand at being the DJ. Students jumped at the chance and learned how to use the turn-table while their peers danced to the music.
Toward the end of the evening winners of a raffle were announced. Everyone waited eagerly to hear who won. Raffle proceeds went to the Humane Society. Three families excitedly claimed their prizes before the night was over.
Energy remained high in the room as attendees participated in salsa dancing. Students, faculty, and parents all filled the dance floor as the night was wrapping up.
Cutural differences brought the community together for the night and showed how diverse communities can come together. “We have to accept everyone’s differences and what they bring to the table,” said Raquel Parker, a faculty volunteer who helped organize the evening.
The evening’s participants were appreciative that there was an event that celebrates the diverse community of students at the school.
Faculty volunteers helped in many ways from serving the food, managing activity tables, and setting up. Faculty volunteer Lisa Shine helped to organize the night’s festivities.
“The event helps [families] to know we are supportive to the local community,” said Shine.
