This is what students and members of the community got the chance to do during Multicultural Week. 

The week was planned by the Student Activities Programming Board and took place Feb. 21 to Feb. 27. This was the first Multicultural Week to take place at Marshall, according to a news release provided by Dennis Hicks, SAPB graduate assistant.

Different organizations were invited to plan an event for the week. Those who participated include the Office of International Students, L.E.A.P. Intensive Program (Learning English for Academic Purposes), the African American Students' Program Office, Baptist Student Union, Sigma Delta Pi and Women Studies.

Hicks sent letters inviting the organizations, Marcie Hatfield, graduate student, said.

The play, "Off to the Races," sponsored by the African American Students' Office kicked off the week. The play was about being judged by appearance and was free to Marshall students, Fran L. Jackson, program assistant II for the Center for African American Students, said.

Feb. 23, the Baptist Student Union had a speaker and live music. The activities continued that evening with the Celebration of Women and Diversity. The Women Studies Group sponsored cultural readings before and after the film "Lakota Women."

"The First Annual World L.E.A.P. Celebration: Coffee and Tea for a Peaceful Planet" took place Feb. 25.

The students recreated a European street lined with bistros and street performers. Students had the opportunity to exchange languages and cultures and sample coffees and teas from around the world.

Sigma Delta Pi also sponsored "Baile Latino" Feb.25. Students and faculty had the opportunity to learn Latin dance styles such as the Salsa and Meringue.

Multicultural Week came to an end Feb. 27 when the Office of International Students presented the 33rd Annual International Festival.

This event showcased different cultures from within the community and offered food, music and celebration of diversity.

"Multicultural Week allowed students to experience different cultures as well as showcase cultures," Hatfield said.
 

Story by Courtney Ross
Photos by Dennis Hicks