By Robbie White
With about 1,200 international students at the University of Calgary, it only makes sense that we celebrate the diversity of this campus. February 3-7 is International Week, and it’s your chance to broaden your horizons and learn about the different cultures that exist here at the U of C. International week has been organized by the International Student Centre, along with approximately fifteen cultural clubs. A variety of events have been planned to fit every interest you may have. Overall the week is jam packed with different events and activities to provide a little cultural flair and pizzazz to what would ordinarily be just another week of class.
International Week will start with a bang on Monday as the Parade of Nations makes its way throughout MacEwan Student Centre to promote the week’s festivities. The parade will be followed by a fashion show organized by the Pakistan Students Association.
Chinese New Year will be the big attraction on Tuesday with New Year celebrations commencing at 11:00am. Tai Chi, Lion Dance, super-size calligraphy, and Chinese dance will follow. The Japanese Cultural Club will add to the afternoon with a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony.
On Wednesday you can learn about teaching overseas in the Study Abroad Fair which begins at 10:00am in the North Courtyard in MacEwan Student Centre. In the South Courtyard is the Jail and Bail, which is being sponsored by Amnesty International. Check out who on campus is being jailed, contribute to their bail and learn what Amnesty International is doing.
International Jeopardy begins on Thursday as teams test their wits with international-related questions for the coveted trophy. Later in the afternoon the U of C World Music Ensemble presents a selection of "non-western" music. To wrap up the day is an anti-racism workshop sponsored by Reach out Against Racism and the International Student Centre.
Friday starts off with the International Development Fair put on by Engineers Without Borders; find out which non-governmental organizations are promoting appropriate technology as part of their work overseas. Finally the week wraps up with a party in the Grad Lounge. Celebrate with music, dance, songs, and presentations from various countries.
In addition to all these great events there are also panel discussions on issues such as "The effect of UN sanctions on Iraq" and "Canada/US relations after 9/11", as well as various seminars on studying abroad or working overseas. There is sure to be something that interests you during International Week. For the full schedule of events please visit the International Student Centre.