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CSUMB celebrates Asian Pacific Island culture

The beauty and diversity of the Asian Pacific Island cultures will be celebrated at Cal State Monterey April 25-29.

“We create events to educate students about the API culture and traditions we share,” said Matt Menor, president of the campus Asian Pacific Islander Association. “We would like to showcase our culture to students so they are aware of our traditions and beliefs, and to make sure that they are educated on who we are,” he said.

Here's the schedule:

• April 25: Showcase, 6-8 p.m., East Lounge of the Student Center

The week gets under way with an opportunity to learn about CSUMB’s Asian Pacific Islander Association, see arts and crafts from Asian cultures and learn about various Asian countries from campus clubs. The APIA dance team will perform.

• April 26: Holi Festival, noon-4 p.m., Main Quad

Holi celebrates spring in the Indian culture. Said Menor: “This is an important event to us because many people have the misconception that Asian counties are only the ones they know – China, Japan, Philippines. Many forget that India is part of Asia.”

• April 27: Faculty panel, 2-4 p.m., West Lounge of the Student Center

API faculty members are invited to tell their stories of the traditions they had growing up.

• April 28: Luau, 5-8p.m., Dining Commons

Kalua pig and mahi mahi will be on the menu. “This gives students the opportunity to be a part of our ‘ohana’ (extended family) and share in our culture of food” while watching multicultural performances, Menor said.

• April 29: Dialogue, 2-4 p.m., West Lounge of the Student Center

All students are invited to participate in an open dialogue. Club members will discuss their identity and culture and issues facing API students.

For more information or disability accommodations, contact csumbapia@gmail.com

Published April 8, 2016