MANCHESTER – Township high school students, staff and members of the public came out to enjoy a cultural experience within their building recently. It was all part of a cultural fair.
The well attended event was one of the first community events at the school to be open to the general public since COVID-19 restrictions began. Everyone was visibly happy to be out and have games, music, and the chance to sample some ethnic food.
The fair was organized by teacher Lucy DiLeo and the Multicultural and World Language Clubs of MTHS. The event celebrated the diversity of the Manchester community and included tables were set up representing 18 countries, including Greece, Italy, Spain, Mexico, France, Korea, the Philippines, Ireland, India, China and more.
Among the musical selections enjoyed by attendees were the sounds of the Scottish bagpipe and Polish accordion performances. Another cultural highlight was a play presented by students of the Polish Language Academy.
Along with the tasty food samples, several tables offered up a craft or game.
The free event was open to the public thanks to a PRIDE grant from the Manchester Township Education Association. The fair also featured a variety of local restaurants, parents, students and staff who donated food and supplies. Many volunteered before and during the event.
“For everyone who came out or who gave us something or who lent us something: Gracias! Merci! Grazie!” DiLeo said. “We traveled around the world, sampled foods, met new people, but it was the community coming together and showing our students that we might be different but we are the same at heart!”
For those who would like to see more of the activity, watch the school’s video at youtu.be/sRQI7XfJ-ZU
