Dance for Diversity
The University of New Brunswick hosted Ticket to Diversity, an event where all cultures are celebrated through dance, song, cuisine and dress.
The basement of the student union building closed Friday, February 22nd to celebrate diversity on campus. Flags from all over the world lined the room with balloons and streamers to match. The festivities took place from 5 to 10 pm where guests filled the space with fun and laughter.
Organizers filled the event with games, where students wrote “Welcome” in their native language and pinned a map where they are from. A photo wall stood at the back of the room with professional photographers and students alike commemorating the festivities.
Students entertained guests with dances and songs from their home countries. Performances ranged from an all-girl k-pop group, an indigenous pair who performed in their traditional clothing, and two groups who joined together to form a grand ensemble filled with colour and movement.
UNB Vietnamese student, My Linh, appreciates the opportunity to learn about other cultures, saying it is a great way to see the way others dress, eat, and celebrate.
“We can express ourselves with diversity, culture, like Vietnamese, I’m from Vietnam. Chinese, India, many cultures all around the world. So it’s really amazing and I feel very excited about this one,” said My Linh.
International students performed both international music as well as renditions of American music. One man performed a drum solo to “Despacito”, while an Indian student sang an Indian version of “Somewhere over the Rainbow.”
Participants showcased their traditional clothing with a fashion show. Models made a grand entrance by descending the staircase and circling the room.
Homemade food was a success with Samosas from India as well as plates made up of traditional Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine.
Recently gaining popularity over the past few years, Taiwanese Bubble Tea was a big success. Named Bubble Tea for the Tapioca in the drink, which looks like bubbles. It is extremely difficult to make and a special treat for everyone who attended.
The crowd clapped and cheered for the exotic performances, delicious food, and fun festivities.
