The Amerasia Organization hosted a multicultural night on April 5 in which individuals from various asian and pacific islander backgrounds celebrated their cultures.
The event brought together members of different backgrounds to highlight their uniqueness as well as to learn from each other. From dancing to modeling clothing to discussing traditions – throughout the evening, those attending learned about what makes different cultures special.
This event – as well as the second multicultural night that took place the following day – culminated Amerasia week, a series of events organized by the Fresno State Amerasia organization to highlight Asian and Pacific Islander cultures.
“It shows the beauty of human beings – how different we are and how special everybody is,” said Sandy Vang, a member of the Fresno State Hmong Student Association.
Catherine Nguyen, the culture co-chair of the Amerasia organization, said the Amerasia organization wanted to create an event in which individuals could collaborate with those like them.
“It helps people identify who they are so they can connect with other people who have similar backgrounds,” Nguyen said.
The event began with attendees sharing their cultural backgrounds with the audience. One audience member said that he is half black and half mexican.
Then, members of the Fresno State Hmong Student Association performed a dance routine.
The Fresno State Lao Student Association also gave a presentation on Lao New Year and performed a dance routine.After the dances, a fashion show ensued.
Participants dressed in traditional clothing from Hmong, Lao and Vietnamese backgrounds.
Some explained the meanings behind their clothing and encouraged others to ask questions about what they might have been curious about.
Attendee Daro Vann said he appreciated that the event fostered an environment of inclusivity.
“I believe [that] even though we’re all different ethnicities, we’re all in the same world,” Vann said. “We all could be [a] family.”
Vang said she felt the event helped encourage individuals to be more accepting of themselves as well as of others.
“It gives people the opportunity to embrace who they really are so they’re not ashamed of where they come from,” Vang said. “As they become more open minded towards other cultures.”