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It has been said that ignorance is bliss. But understanding may be what is truly neecessary for all the cultures of the world to coexist.
Students, staff and members of the community gathered to watch and learn about traditions different from their own Wednesday afternoon at the "The Beauty of Cultures." The event - hosted by the Minnesota State Ethnics Studies department - included 25 performances ranging from dances to music demonstrations and even language lessons.
Cultures from throughout the world were represented. There were representatives from the Laotian, Hmong and Nepali cultures, among others.
Famata Roques, a native of West Africa, used her time on stage to give a language lesson. She taught the audience how to say things such as "hello" and "I love you" in her native language. Roques then sang her national anthem and received a standing ovation from the crowd.
"This is so great for our country and this university," Roques said. "Every culture is unique in every way. It is so wonderful to get to learn about them all."
Audience members were not only impressed with the individual performances, but with the broader idea of the event.
"I think it's important to learn about other cultures because America and this university are very diverse," said MSU student Jessy Stanton. "It broadens your horizons and makes you more accepting of other people."
Katharine Droog, an Ethnic Studies minor, agreed the message of the event is one that will hopefully resonate with the crowd.
"It is so important for MSU students to have a good understanding of different cultures and not be scared of [what is] unknown to them," she said.
Droog participated in the event by playing her flute.
Last year, Vang Xiong, an MSU grad student, came up with the idea for the cultural event. It was such a success that the ethnic studies department was asked to put on a performance during both semesters this year.
"We want to welcome students from all over the world by giving these performances to promote culture," Xiong said.
Ethnic studies professor Hanh-Huy Phan was impressed with the outcome of the event.
"It is really neat to see people from another ethnic group, learning and helping each other," Phan said. "It teaches diversity by example."
Phan added that the peaceful cooperation of so many different cultures gives a window into an ideal world.
"The lesson is to be proud of who you are and appreciate who other people are. No competition only enjoyment of cultures and harmony, she said. "This is how the world should be all the time."
Madeline Greene is a Reporter staff writer
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