On May 24, the National Chinese Honor Society (NCHS) hosted a Cultural Carnival in the small gym. This event included a variety of cultures with diverse food, music, and engaging cultural activities. Through this event, students and staff learned more about the unique backgrounds of their peers.

To prepare for this event, student volunteers created tri-folds incorporating cultural traditions, important information, and multiple visuals. For example, Sudan’s tri-fold included the country’s history in order for others to gain a better understanding.

“Learning about other cultures is pivotal for one’s growth because it expands our worldview,” said Ms. Eleanor Rolon, a college and career counselor.

Many of the tables cooked and sold food from their respective cultures. Crepes from France made by the French National Honor Society (FNHS), macaroni and cheese from the Black Student Union (BSU), pancit from the Philippines made by the Class of 2025, and more filled the air with a flavorful aroma. A shared love for food united both students and staff from diverse backgrounds.

“I know a lot of people brought in food from different cultures, and I know that one of the biggest things of people’s culture is food,” said Keona Rose ‘25, a student representing the Black Student Union. “So, I think food is one of the things that helps bring together students at EHS.”

Along with the dishes these clubs provided, some looked to share culture in other aspects as well. For example, the students representing the Dominican Republic created and sold bracelets and stickers, and the students representing Afghanistan provided a service for students and staff to get henna done.

As students roamed around the gym, different genres and languages of music were heard from speakers brought by the presenters. From rap to Chinese music, students used all their senses to indulge in the cultures.

“There’s a lot of culture and to see all of this together is incredible, I’ve never seen something like this before,” said Keanu Balon ‘27, a student representing Ecuador.

Although Edison High School is frequently known for its diversity among its students and staff, the representation of the cultures within the school is not always displayed in a way that is similar to this event held in the small gym. The Cultural Carnival brought the cultures of underrepresented countries and ethnicities in EHS, allowing students to acquire knowledge about multiple cultures.

“I think EHS is really blessed to have all sorts of people from different backgrounds and races,” said Violet Bak ’25, representing France. “I think being a part of a community is embracing everybody’s cultural identities and backgrounds, and the Cultural Carnival is just an excellent way to do that because we get to see people from all walks of life.”