Several events highlighting the diversity of the world’s cultures will be co-sponsored by the Black Student Union, Writer’s Ring, the Center for Multicultural Affairs, the International Education Center, and the Native American SUNY Western Consortium at SUNY Fredonia the week of Nov. 10 through 15.
The public is invited to attend any of the week’s activities.
On Saturday, Nov. 10, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room of the Williams Center, the annual Culture Night will be held, this year an “Indian Diwali Festival of Lights.” The evening will feature authentic Indian food, dancers, artifacts, and the opportunity to experience a henna tattoo.
Culture Night is held each year to give students and community members an opportunity to familiarize themselves with a new culture and experience some of the key aspects that make it unique. Organizers note that this year India was chosen because of the richness of its culture and variety of traditions and festivals. Diwali is a five-day festival in India that takes place in October or November, depending on the lunar calendar. The name comes from the Sanskrit word “deepavali,” meaning row of lights. At the festival, candles are lit as signs of hope and celebration for mankind. Entrance fees for the event are nominal; $3 for students and $5 for non-students.
Events on Monday through Wednesday are free. On Monday, Nov. 12, the Writer’s Ring will sponsor an open-mic session at 7 p.m. at The Spot in the Williams Center. On Tuesday, Nov. 13, there will be salsa and Native American dance instruction offered at 8 p.m., again in the Spot, with refreshments. Also part of the event will be a demonstration of Native American dance with traditional costumes. To complete Tuesday’s activities, there will be a “Cruise Around the World” beginning at 7 p.m., which is a self-guided tour of residence hall lobbies decorated to represent different cultures. On Wednesday, Nov. 14, there will be an Asian Club Talent Show beginning at 7 p.m. in Room S-104 of the Williams Center and refreshments will be served.
On Thursday, Nov. 15, Faculty Student Association Chef Dean Messina will present an Italian cooking show beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Café G in the Williams Center. He will demonstrate the art of Italian cuisine and participants will enjoy the meal he prepares. Students may use their meal plan or points, or cash, and reservations for all are required by calling 716-673-3451. At 7 p.m. , a film, “Land of Ancestors,” will be screened followed by discussion with Pamela Bowen in Williams Center Room S-104, and refreshments will be served. Ms. Bowen of the Allegany Territory is the director of the Seneca Nation Library and a descendant of Seneca Nation Chief Cornplanter.
