To celebrate the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Leadership collaborated with the Asian Culture Club, Journaling Club, and Art Club and hosted an event on the Green on Thursday at lunch. The three clubs ran booths with activities and food, welcoming students to the lively event.
The Asian Culture Club set up its booth in front of the stage, selling boba and bánh mì, a Vietnamese sandwich. The boba sold out quickly as usual, while the bánh mì also drew steady interest from students.
At the Journaling Club booth, students tried traditional Chinese knot-tying and calligraphy. Printed knot-tying tutorials were taped to the table, while club members guided students through the activity. The club also provided square pieces of red paper and ink brushes for students to try calligraphy for themselves.
At the Art Club booth, students used a variety of colored papers to create fans. According to Co-President Sophomore Riona Nerrie, the activity was inspired by traditional Japanese fans.
Despite the activities, club leaders said the event drew a smaller crowd than expected. Limited advertising and the event’s timing may have contributed to the lower turnout. Since Thursday was Senior Ditch Day, many seniors were not on campus.
“I think the fact that it was on a Senior Skip Day was a bit unfortunate,” senior and Asian Culture Club President Sumiko Robinson said. “It was just the timing. But, I think it’s nice weather today, people coming outside, so I think it’s generally good.”
Some club leaders also noted that Pacific Islander representation was limited at the event. There was no Pacific Islander-led booth or activity, raising questions about how future AAPI Month celebrations could better represent all parts of the community.
“I don’t think that [the] Pacific Islander [community] is as well represented in this specific event,” Robinson said. However, she said she believes that the celebration has potential if planning improves next year. “I think the idea is there, and so as long as next year it’s just a bit more organized. I think it’ll be good,” she said.
Art Club President Sophomore Ruby Martinez-Vargas also said she hopes to see more clubs involved in the future. “I feel like next year we can have more clubs present, especially since I’m pretty sure there’s a Pacific Islander Club,” Martinez-Vargas said.
Despite the lower turnout, the event brought AAPI culture to the Green and left room for a stronger celebration next year.
