To create an inclusive event focused on gratitude, the Office of Equity, Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs staff co-sponsored the Give Thanks Celebration with Black Student Union, Organization of Hispanic Students, and East Asian Student Association on Nov. 29 in Comanche.
“We host holiday events that we are usually more focused on one type of culture or one type of religion,” Syreeta Greene, director of EIMA, said. “We know that have a very diverse community here, so this is a way for us to offer an inclusive program where the running theme between all types of holiday celebrations is gratitude and giving thanks for the things we have.”
Javier Fuerte, president of OHS, said he chose to participate in this event to collaborate with other multicultural organizations and celebrate the season of giving thanks and gratitude for the semester.
“It’s almost over now and just getting through it, for our friends and family and the opportunity to be able to express, share our culture with all the students here on campus,” Fuerte said.
Fuerte said his organization shows thanks and gratitude by keeping Hispanic traditions and beliefs alive.
“Most Hispanics obviously aren’t from the states, so they’re bringing their own cultures, their traditions, their beliefs to the United States,” Fuerte, radiology sophomore, said. “It’s important to always remind yourself where you come from, keep those traditions and beliefs alive, share them and keep them going with other people.”
Tre’Vonne Bradford, BSU vice president, agreed with Fuerte. Bradford said BSU wanted to show other organizations how they celebrate and give thanks. With about 30 students in attendance, she said she was happy with the event’s turnout, stating there should be more events like Give Thanks.
“You get to learn more about other people’s culture. Even though we see people all the time in our classes, and as we walk around campus,” Bradford, exercise physiology junior, said. “We don’t necessarily get to connect with them and learn more about their culture. It’s a great event and I hope to see it again next semester.”
