DHS Hosts Cultural Appreciation Night 

DHS held Cultural Appreciation Week in early May, during which there were different themes related to culture each day that included international sports jerseys, dress in the colors of cultural flags, or dress like a tourist.  The main event of the week occurred on Thursday, when DHS hosted its first Cultural Appreciation Night since 2019, put together by the Student Council and Global Citizenship Club. 

The cafeteria staff also got involved by preparing a cultural menu, with food that originated in different countries each day. Monday featured Spanish food, Tuesday was French Day, Wednesday was Haitian Day, and Friday was Italian Day. 

There was also a photobooth set up in the cafeteria with a different theme each day. Students could pick different props and pose behind the frame which represented a different country each day. After taking a photo students earned one free cookie. 

Students created exhibits for their countries of origin which were set up around the cafeteria. Each table included posters, food, and little trinkets that represented a certain country. Many students represented their country by wearing the colors of their flag. 

Some of the countries represented included the Dominican Republic, Mexico, the Philippines, Albania, Haiti, Turkey, Thailand, Ukraine, Russia, Greece, the Czech Republic, Puerto Rico, and Lebanon. 

Upbeat world-music was playing the whole time, making the mood in the cafeteria was lively and fun. There were even coloring pages for kids. 

When asked about the event, Ms. Guifarro, the advisor of Global Citizenship Club, said, "Cultural Appreciation Night was a great success this year. We had over fifteen cultures represented from our student body. The night included lots of delicious tastings as well as music from the cultures represented. We hope to encourage even more participation next year."

Lily Zahka, a member of the Student Council, commented, "I really enjoyed getting to experience other students' cultures by sharing food, dancing, and learning about different traditions. I hope that Cultural Appreciation Night becomes an annual event!"

The event was a great way for students to embrace and share their culture with the school community. It was also a good opportunity for students and staff to learn about foreign countries and try new food.