The UTM Student Government Association hosted an International night on Wednesday, Nov 5th in the University Center Ballroom.
The event was scheduled as part of the university’s ongoing Diversity Week. Several student organizations participated in the event, including the Japanese Language Club, the African Student Association, the Chinese Student Association, the French Club and the Black Student Association.
International Night gave the students of UTM a glimpse into different lifestyles and cultures from around the world.
“The reason that we do International Night as a part of Diversity Week is because we want to make the student body aware of the diverse groups and people at UTM,” said Shantia Brown, a music education major and multi-cultural affairs chairperson for Student Government Association. “[It] is a privilege for me, my committee, and the different student organizations around campus to be able to plan this event.”
International Night provided the attendees with several activities, as well as multicultural refreshments. The Japanese Language Club allowed the students to take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, while the French club provided students with samples of Brie cheese, a common foodstuff for French citizens. The Black Student Association passed out candy and provided information about their organization, while the Chinese Student Association showed students how to write their names in Chinese.
Students attending the event were also given information regarding the various cultures represented in the event; via a looping multimedia presentation on the overhead screens.
While walking around and visiting the different booths, students could read fun facts about the different cultures from the power point that was continuously playing on the overhead screens.
Diversity Week has came to a close, but two more events are planned for this year. The International Fashion Show takes place Thursday, Nov 6th at 7 p.m., while Matsuri, also known as the Japanese Festival of Festivals, is scheduled for Friday, Nov 7th at 7 p.m. Both events are being held in the University Center Ballroom.
