Social Justice Week at Jesuit High School: Artistically representing various student cultures through traditional dances

During this week, we pick a theme, invite keynote speakers, and hold workshops led by the students. We tackle topical issues and see it as our collective responsibility to educate ourselves and advocate for change where we see it needs to happen.

This year, the theme was “identity”, and the workshops embraced this theme in a multitude of ways. From the psychology behind personality to the importance of salmon to the identity of Native Americans. These workshops weave students’ interests into a broader discussion of social justice.

By far the highlight of the week – for most students and faculty – is the community celebration assembly. At this assembly, students artistically represent their heritage through traditional dances, music, and outfits. Our South Asian culture club performed Bollywood and western fusion dances. Our Vietnamese student union showcased traditional dances of the Hmong people and carried out a dragon dance. Our Filipino students masterfully executed a folk dance called Tinikling, where dancers jump between moving sticks. Our Polish students wore beautiful dresses with intricate embroidery on the bodices during a Polka. All of our affinity groups were given the opportunity to showcase dances, and it’s eagerly awaited by the student body every year.

The stunning geometric displays created by the fan dances of Vietnamese Student Union and the perfect synchronicity of the steps choreographed in perfect rhythmic harmony of Latino Student Union captivates the entire school. The effort and intentionality that all the performers approach their dances suggests a deep reverence for their roots.

This community celebration assembly and our broader social justice week provides students of all backgrounds a stage to celebrate their heritage. It allows them to invite the rest of the school to partake in an appreciation of the expression of various cultures. It also is an act of preservation of so many historic traditions in the face of a more dominant culture. Our students foster inclusivity and embrace differences by cheering on fellow students.

This week serves as a beautiful reminder of humanity’s variation and teaches our new generation to celebrate diversity. Above all, however, it evidences that dance is a universal form of human expression.

Anya Kennedy is a 12th grader at Jesuit High School. She enjoys spending time with friends and family, traveling, swimming, hiking, and reading. She enjoys working at a preschool, tutoring, and babysitting.