The ASU Gospel Choir attracts students and staff, filling the solarium in the final hours of the Diversity Celebration. Jamie McGirt | The Appalachian

“The Diversity Celebration is a festival that focuses on promoting unity and acceptance towards those who are different from us,” Student Government Association Director of Diversity Rachel L. Little said.

The celebration had arts and crafts, a slew of performers representing cultures from all over the world, as well as free food samples that represent delicacies from across the globe, Little said. Activities included: Treehouse Puppet Theater, Mariachi Mexico 2000, Dulcimer Playing Workshop, ASU Gospel Choir, Cuban Classical and Folk Piano, Shakunta Yogis and many more.

Gus E. Pena, assistant director of the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership said some people come back to the celebration every year, and some are new.

“It showcases diversity and talent in North Carolina,” Pena said. “It’s something we are really proud of.”

The Dry Creek Medicine Singers are a Southern Style Native America Drum Group.

“For us, Native Americans, so many people are ignorant,” member of the Dry Creek Medicine Singers Melissa Creel said. “It’s nice to show that we don’t live tepees. We struggle just like every other non-Caucasian race.”

The group performs with a specialized drum responsible for the music. It represents the Cherokee, Lakota and Natchez-Kusso tribes.

“Knowledge and understanding of what other cultures have to offer is something that everyone should take away from this. We sometimes get stuck in our own world,” Little said. “But we need to put aside ones differences and encourage a deeper exploration of cultural uniqueness. Let’s foster an atmosphere here at App that promotes inclusion and collaboration among all sectors of the university and greater community.”

Story: BECKY BUSH, Intern News Reporter

Photo: JAMIE MCGIRT, Intern Photographer