Students celebrate Latin culture during annual Multicultural Day

(Photo Credit: Bryson Antonio) Students danced and enjoyed the food and music during the extended lunch hours.

Bryson Antonio, Reporter

The annual Multicultural Day, which occurred on April 19 from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. featured food and drink to purchase and performances from different groups around Radford. This event was hosted at the outdoor stage and was organized by Paddling Coach Gino Dayton and the Student Council. 

Dayton, who has been organizing this event since 2011 said,  “This event was made to showcase different cultures and the diversity we have in our school. It started with the club’s selling food that represents their ethnic origin, but spread to all clubs and organizations to raise money for their program.”

Various clubs and organizations showcased food, music, and dance to represent their culture. Entertainment for the event included a band performance by community military members, also featuring some Radford staff. Special Education Department Head Tani Almont-Done helped organize getting the band together. The K-pop Dance club performed at the end of the event. 

“This year we are highlighting Latin music and heritage,” said Dayton. This event happens every year in April. Every other year we will highlight Polynesian culture if there is no Mayday production in the gym. If we have a Mayday, then we will showcase a different culture like this year.” 

Some of the food and drink that were available to purchase included mochi by the Gaming and Anime Club, spam musubis by the Health Occupations Students of America, soda or juice by the Avid Senior, smoked meat bowls by the Hawaiian Club, poi donuts by Hui Hawaiʻi Kipuka, and garlic or firecracker chicken by the Culinary classes.