Archmere Academy celebrates Cultural Night

Chinwendu Emedoh '23
Chinwendu Emedoh '23 shares her perspective on Archmere's first Cultural Night.
Culture is evident in all parts of the world, and each one is extremely different. No culture is the same. Many like to assume they know everything about other people’s cultures, which causes miscommunication, especially when the other party does not appreciate assumptions. 

Cultural Night was a night that was intended to highlight the diversity of the culture of Archmere students — the food they eat, the music they listen to, how they dress, the language they speak, their religion or religion and social customs, like how they greet. Students and family members had the opportunity to learn about the cultures of their peers whom they have been alongside for four years or less. 

Students were represented from Brazil, the Philippines, Mexico, India, Nigeria (where I represent), Kenya, Ghana, China, Poland, Ethiopia, Trinidad, Italy, Greece, France, and Eritrea. While cultural music was played and clothes displayed, activities and games from those countries also made an appearance: Ludo from Nigeria, Hop-scotch from the U.K., Stern Halma (Chinese Checkers) from Germany and China, Carom from India, Luta de Galo from Brazil, and Mancala which I learned was surprisingly played in many of the different countries represented. People also had the opportunity to try food from these countries. I had fun trying all the different cuisines because I always like to try something new, especially when it comes to food, because who doesn’t enjoy food! 

I got to learn more about my friends' cultures, and it was fun too. Food, music, and activities are always great ways to bond with others while having a fun time. I know that I will never forget this night, as it has made a lasting impression on not only me but the Archmere community as well. Cultural Night was Archmere’s first and definitely will not be the last. I hope that this can become a tradition that will help students with diverse backgrounds feel seen and welcomed at Archmere. 

This was an opportunity to make a friend from another part of the world and learn a lot about them. Education is lifelong, and it is important to educate ourselves about people and countries we are not familiar with, so we can learn more about them.
Back
Archmere Academy is a private, Catholic, college preparatory co-educational academy,
grades 9-12 founded in 1932 by the Norbertine Fathers.