BY CASSIDEY KAVATHAS, MANAGING EDITOR
The first annual multicultural gala took place in the Quick Center for the Arts on Tuesday, April 5. The gala was a first of its kind culture event meant to bring the campus community together. Nik Figueroa, a junior music major, came up with the idea his freshman year and has been the key organizer of the event.
“My freshman year I was looking around campus to see if there’s any cultural events that involve, like everything together,” said Figueroa “I have older siblings, so I went to their colleges and they had similar events, the one that I planned.”
The event showcased the multiple cultures seen across campus.
“It represents our voice, not just people of color, but people of all types of cultures,” said Figueroa. “Whether they’re from this country or another country, or even if they live 30 minutes away from here, they still have something they want to represent.”
The gala featured food from different cultures such as onigiri and flan as well as events such as henna tattoos and dominos with Br. Angel Vazquez O.F.M. Before multiple performances, attendees could participate in crafts like sugar skulls and origami.
“The performance that they put on was really cool and inclusive of all cultures,” said Sophie Nix, a sophomore elementary and special education major. “I enjoyed learning more about other people’s cultures as well as seeing my Italian heritage represented.”
The Reverend Michael Reyes, O.F.M. opened the performances with a prayer in his native language of Filipino. The performance featured multiple poets and spoken word as well as musical performances. The event ended with a fashion show which represented multiple cultures seen everyday on campus.
“It just feels amazing to be able to see something that you want to do come to life,” said Figueroa “I wanted everyone to have fun and just open their eyes or look into the different cultures that exist here on campus.”
Figueroa hopes to see this tradition continue and expand in the next coming years.
“I hope for more people performing, more representation, more opportunities for people to just be who they want to be as well as more respect to different cultures and other people,” said Figueroa.
kavathcj20@bonaventure.edu
