Celebrate Pacific Islands Culture at SMC | St. Mary's College | SMC Moraga

Lamorindans looking for an exotic cultural experience are invited to a Hawaiian luau in celebration of the culture and history of the Pacific Islands from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 26 at the Saint Mary's College Soda Center. In true Hawaiian spirit, this is an all-inclusive event, made possible by the dedicated members of SMC's Intercultural Center, who have been putting on cultural nights for the past 18 years.

The IC seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment in which diversity is embraced and identity can flourish. They take a cue from Beverly Tatum, president of Spelman College and a leader among women of African descent, who states, "Our ongoing examination of who are in our full humanity, embracing all our identities, creates the possibility of building alliances that may ultimately free us all."

One way the IC seeks to value diversity and build inclusive community is through a series of annual cultural nights during which six historically underrepresented and traditionally marginalized people and groups are recognized and celebrated through theater, music, food, dance and student expression. Culture nights provide valuable education for cultural competence in a fun and engaging manner. The IC has already hosted The Bash (in recognition of the LGBTQIA population) and Latino Culture Night, both of which featured tasty food and soulful student performances.

The IC luau will feature a selection of student performances as well. In the past these have ranged from various forms of hula dancing and ukulele playing to the singing and teaching of traditional Hawaiian songs. The event includes delicious food, vibrant colors and the welcoming spirit of these celebrated islands. No pre-registration is needed. Tickets can be purchased beginning at 5 p.m. at the door of the Soda Center. General admission is $8.

Future IC Cultural Nights will include Asian Cultural Night on April 9, Arabian Night on April 23 and Expressions of Blackness Night on May 7. For additional information on any of the IC's Cultural Nights, contact the IC at (925) 631-8545 or email TheIC@stmarys-ca.edu.



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