By Satyne Doner, Arts and Culture Editor
The Intercultural Student Association was joined by multiple clubs on University Campus to promote cultural awareness on the evening of October 5. Some of the clubs present included the Black Student Union, Caribbean Student Association, Asian-American Pacific Islander Student Association, and more.
The Culture Mic event was aimed at not just promoting cultural awareness within the Saint Leo University community but also at discussing the importance of cultural acceptance. Students were encouraged to never judge based on religion, ethnicity, or race; the event sought to promote a unified campus, where everyone’s voices are heard and understood, as well as appreciated.
Students of all backgrounds gathered around in the SCC Boardrooms to network with each other, share stories about their culture, and learn more about the available groups on campus. They also bonded over food: chicken, pizza, and home-cooked rice from the Saint Leo Pan-African Association were among some of the choices provided.
Furthermore, leaders from cultural organizations on campus took the stage to introduce themselves. For students who may have been unaware of these groups, this proved extremely valuable—these groups provide a way for students to connect with each other and find their niche within the larger Saint Leo community.
“I want students to be able to find a new home, new family through Cultural Mic,” said Latravious Patrick, a junior studying criminal justice and the president of the Black Student Union. “I believe it’s a learning experience where you learn about yourself and others you may relate to.”
Patrick went on to explain the importance of cultural awareness in today’s world.
“The importance of cultural awareness is to open doors of knowledge and understanding,” he said. “Awareness brings different cultures together and allows individuals to tap in with their roots and backgrounds.”
In addition, Patrick also envisions more Culture Mic nights in the future. He takes it as an opportunity for Saint Leo students to thrive and connect with one another.
“As a community, we will consistently unite,” he said. “[We will] spread awareness through informational events and entertainment.”
To conclude, events like these take students out of the confines of their own perception and allow them to open their minds. Saint Leo features an incredible array of cultures and events like the Culture Mic really bring students together to create a more unified, understanding, and compassionate campus.
