Alcorn’s 2019 Multicultural Festival provides a celebration of global cultures

The Office of Global Programs hosted its 2019 Multicultural Festival on Thursday, April 11 in the James L. Bolden Campus Union Ballroom. The purpose of the festival is to celebrate multiculturalism and diversity at Alcorn State University. The theme for this year’s assembly was “A Celebration of Global Cultures.”

The event began with an international flag parade led by the Sounds of Dyn-O-Mite drumline from the Office of Global Programs to the ballroom.

A myriad of students, faculty, staff, and guests was in attendance. LLJuna Weir, director of Educational Equity and Inclusion, served as the mistress of ceremony.

During the celebration, Dr. Donna Williams, interim vice provost and dean of the School of Business, presented a proclamation on behalf of interim president Dr. Donzell Lee and Alcorn State University, declaring April 11 as Multicultural Day and acknowledging its importance to the university and its surrounding communities.

According to Dr. Dovi Alipoe, director of Global Programs, the university has identified a total of 21 countries represented among undergraduate and graduate students this year, deriving from every continent with the exception of Antarctica.

Alipoe explained why the Multicultural Festival is critical to upholding a multicultural society.

“It is very important for us to try to understand other cultures. We are trying to promote multiculturalism and recognize every culture for what they are. The Multicultural Festival allows us to get a glimpse of the many different cultures that we have on campus,” he said. “It is a learning venue for domestic students, international students as well as the communities adjacent to the University.”

The festival featured a performance by Galen Abdur-Razzaq, jazz flutist, and friends, of Flute Juice Productions, a musical entertainment company based in Orlando, Florida. The company is known for providing music, entertainment, and lectures to colleges and universities worldwide. 

Entertainment was provided by the Alcorn Jazz Band. Students performed monologues and skits under the direction of Dr. Johnny Allen, instructor, Department of Fine Arts. There was also an international fashion show, African dances, spoken word, and musical performances by international students.

Following the performances, guests got a chance to visit the multipurpose room and delight in cultural foods, international art, and music displays, as well as interactive events highlighting the diversity at Alcorn State University.

Shinya Kuo, student, and Mandarin Chinese instructor shared why her first Multicultural Festival was unforgettable. “This was really fun,” said Kuo. “I’m really glad that I could set up a table and that everyone liked my display and games. I think they should have this kind of activity every year, especially for a school like Alcorn that has so many international students.”

For more information on international programs, contact Alipoe at 601.877.6543 or [email protected]. For more information on the Office of Global Programs, visit www.alcorn.edu/globalprograms.