By John Alfaro/reporter
Nationalities, cultures and religions were shared to promote global citizenship awareness.
Often times people think of the U.S. as the center of the world, but in reality it’s a melting pot of different people from around the globe, said Laura Wood, NW history and government professor.
“When students go on to a four-year university, they get into the mindset that they are a part of something bigger,” she said.
One tool used to open students up to other cultures was food, and the event featured a number of traditional dishes from all around the world.
Pupusas from El Salvador, Indian fry bread with almonds and dates, that most Muslims eat when they break their fast from Ramadan, were among some of the food items offered.
Students were able to “break bread” and talk about their countries of origin, cultures and religions.
One of the religions represented was Judaism. Students handed out pamphlets and talked to people about their faith and explained why it mattered to them.
The Jewish culture has a lot of history, NW student a“It also sheds light on a lot of hatred,” he said.
The Global Citizenship event brought many students of different backgrounds and walks of life together and allowed them to experience aspects of cultures they wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to.
“I think it’s very nice TCC is having students from all these countries come together to learn,” said NW student Kayla Ybarra, who was at a booth explaining Islam.
She added that a man came up to her who was from a Jewish synagogue who taught her a lot, and that he was also open to learning about Islam.
