On Friday, April 14, students packed the Taylor Music Center to watch the Multicultural talent showcase, hosted by the Office of Intercultural Affairs (OIA) and A More Equitable Union. The talent show had 13 performances by individuals and groups, showcasing singing, musical performances, rap, art, and poetry.
“The Office of Intercultural Affairs is creating this 2023 tradition, now collaborating with A More Equitable Union, to primarily provide Student-led Multicultural clubs/organizations, in addition to all students interested with a safe platform to express themselves, and their cultures via Visual Art/Dance/Music/ Poetry and more,” Nadiyah Roberts-Green, the Assistant Director of Intercultural Affairs, said. “Though the intention of this event is to highlight the diverse club members, on campus, the showcase will continue to be open for all Union students to sign up to perform.”
“This year the Showcase will be hosted by DJ HollyW8d… who is the organizer of ‘More Music Less Violence’ in the Capital Region, and in 2021 presented a ‘Build your brand’ presentation in 2021 here at Union,” Roberts-Green said. Students excitedly cheered on each other at the event. “it is extremely refreshing to have support for the local community and for students to network and support one another,” Roberts-Green said. “It means a lot that so many students, faculty, and staff who do not work directly in our office or a part of A More Equitable Union have signed up and have since reached out with excitement to cheer on the performers.”
The event began with the performer “Keysh” performing a step routine, with acts ranging from art showcases, other dance routines, and singing afterward. At the end of the event, the performer “Welly” invited the audience to come near the stage and performed a mini concert.
The club A More Equitable Union meets on Wednesdays at 5 PM in Reamer 301. The Office of Intercultural Affairs (OIA) is located in Reamer 305 and “is committed to building a welcoming learning and living community that is diverse, inclusive and equitable.”
This article was originally published in the print edition of Concordiensis on April 20, 2023.