Student Organizations Honor Cultural Traditions

Cross-cultural festivities foster a sense of community, and students in the Jewish Student Union and Hispanic Student Union came together prior to the holiday break to celebrate and learn more about each other’s respective traditions and customs.

 

“It was really nice to see so many students participating in the celebrations, said JSU advisor David Sokoloff and HSU advisor Nuria Mateos. “The opportunities to engage with other cultures is vital, and sharing our common traditions with others helps build a stronger community.”

 

Twenty students reflecting both student groups gathered together in the Lender Refectory for an afternoon of crafts, food, and learning. JSU member and senior Helen Gerber shared the story of Hanukkah and the importance of the menorah. Other members spoke about their family traditions, which included lighting the menorah, saying blessings, and spending time with family. Students were encouraged to participate in the dreidel game, a traditional group game where each player takes a turn spinning the four-sided piece and using gelt or chocolate coins as currency. All enjoyed latkes or potato pancakes made by Cafeteria Manager Kevin Stawitz.

 

Members of the Hispanic Student Union shared their family traditions during the holiday season, which include singing carols, lighting candles and paper lanterns, and enjoying meals together. As part of a traditional custom, students spent time knitting together Ojo de Dios or God’s Eye. The craft is made by weaving together colorful yarn around a wooden cross made of popsicle sticks. The yarn pieces are wrapped to make four points, which symbolize the elements of earth, fire, air, and water. Senior and HSU member Isabella Ferneini noted that it is often used for prayer and protection.