By Zoha Qader '17

Last Friday, Notre Dame hosted, not one, but two Multi-Cultural Showcases, one for the student community and one for family and friends in the evening. The event included a fashion show and performances by the various cultural groups on campus. The students were able to share their own culture and learn about the diversity of their Notre Dame sister.

The showcase participants included members of the Jewish Cultural Club, the Chinese Cultural Club, the Muslim Student Association, the South Asian Student Association, the Vietnamese Student Association, the Filipino Student Association, Latinas Unidas and Japan Club. Both events started with a fashion show where the different groups displayed their cultural clothes. The clothes varied from traditional clothes to westernized adaptations. The performances began with a vocal performance by members of the South Asian Student Association. The dance performances were a mix of traditional cultural dances and more modern versions. The Jewish Cultural Club ended the program with a vocal performance and a dance that invited audience participation. After the show, the audience was able to enjoy a variety of dishes provided by the groups.

Although the fashion is an annual event, these groups often practice their dance performances year round. Groups including the South Asian Student Association, the Vietnamese Student Association, and the Filipino Student Association have their own team of skilled dancers. They also host dance showcases as a collaboration with a other San Jose high schools.

This is one of the many Notre Dame events that showcase our cultural diversity. By including cultural and religious groups, the school has created a safe space for students to embrace their backgrounds and share their ideas.