Culture is nurtured over time; some are born into it, some seek it, and others get lost in it. It helps us identify aspects of our lives and lays down a foundation in which a group thrives. The concept of culture is a universally shared value, establishing commonalities and, in many cases, respect.
The annual Camosun College Cultural Showcase, now in its eighth year, has created equal opportunities for students to participate and expand their understanding of concepts such as culture and identity, and how they are interwoven or quite separate.
For instance, a Japanese student who doesn’t speak the language is singing a Korean pop song, while “a group of Chinese and Korean students are singing Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah,’” says Camosun International communication officer Roseanne Harvey, a prominent leader in the showcase’s development.
The showcase, taking place on March 20 and including students from all over the world, coincides with the March 21 International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Peer Connections member Srijani Nath recalls her initial reaction to the Cultural Showcase.
“A cultural showcase at my school? I was so excited!” says Nath.
Passionate and working cohesively, the performers’ ability to accurately depict their cultural perspective shows the audience the range of the students’ diversity.
The art of performing isn’t simply displaying a talent, but believing in it enough to share. The Cultural Showcase offers means of communication among students and networking that may not otherwise occur.
“It’s a really fun way to connect,” says Peer Connections member Jamila Liu. “Everyone is just so nice and I get to see other cultures, too.”
Graduating in Community Family and Child Studies, Liu has viewed and participated in Camosun’s Cultural Showcase twice and has gained experience with hosting and performing, but emphasizes her heightened ability to communicate effectively.
As a Marketing student from Eastern India who has spent two semesters studying here in Canada, Nath is preparing herself for her first Cultural Showcase hosting experience.
“It’s a great honour,” she says, acknowledging the hours she has sacrificed to plan a seamless event. One of the advantages of working with the Cultural Showcase team is the knowledge she has gained on the cultural landscape here in Victoria, she says.
Nath is performing an eclectic Indian dance with friends at the event. She remarks on how the Cultural Showcase has strengthened the student community.
“Last year, we had 300 people show up,” says Srijani. “This year we’re hoping for 500.”
Although tickets for the event are free, donations are accepted and will be given to the African Awareness Society and will be allocated towards the Uganda Rural Fund, who aim to empower women, youths, and AIDS orphans in the country.
Camosun College Cultural Showcase
7 pm Friday, March 20
By donation, Alix Goolden Performance Hall
camosun.ca/international