The Virgin Islands Humanities Council capped off two days’ worth of serious discussion about issues of cultural awareness, diversity and community with two things everyone loves no matter where they come from – food and dance.
The council held its cultural showcase Saturday night at the Reichhold Center for the Arts. The event began with a chance for attendees to sample food from the various communities that make up the Virgin Islands, including Indian, African and Filipino specialties. There was also art and jewelry on display for purchase.
Later, guests got a chance to witness dance, storytelling and music from those same cultures. “Let us celebrate the differences and similarities that we share,” council chairperson Annie Smith told the crowd.
The council kicked off their conference on bridging cultures Friday. Humanities Council Executive Director Mabel Maduro presented the Humanist Award to Dr. Alfred O. Heath.
On Saturday, attendees got a chance to discuss ways to unite the Virgin Islands community. Also, Azekah Jennings, senior conciliation specialist with the U.S. Department of Justice, discussed ways to facilitate tolerance and respect in communities where people of various cultures live.
The event is in its twenty-fifth year.
