International Fest at OLHMS

International Fest, a day dedicated to honoring the rich tapestry of cultures worldwide, brought together students and staff at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School on March 22nd for a vibrant celebration of diversity and unity. The event showcased an array of activities, performances, and presentations aimed at fostering cultural appreciation and understanding among the school community.

"iFest is a highly anticipated event for our students here at OLHMS. This day is a celebration of our community’s diversity and how our unique differences are what bring us closer together! Especially in this day and age, it is important to promote unity amongst all staff and students and remind ourselves how lucky we are to have such a beautiful array of cultures and walks of life to learn from! It allows us to be reminded that at the end of the day, we are all humam beings deserving to be celebrated no matter where we come from!" - Ms. Maan, iFest Sponsor and 7th grade ELA teacher

The festivities commenced with a colorful "flags of the world" ceremony, reminiscent of the Olympic Games, symbolizing the global unity of nations. Students eagerly participated in a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activity centered around Tangrams, an ancient Chinese puzzle, immersing themselves in the culture and creativity of China.

An integral part of the celebration was the spirited participation in cultural games from different corners of the world. Students joyously played games like Corre, Corre la guaraca from Chile, Pilolo from Ghana, Semut, Orang, Gajah from Indonesia, and Morra from Egypt, Greece, and Italy, among others, embracing the diversity of recreational activities enjoyed worldwide.Throughout the day, all Encore classes engaged in enlightening country presentations, crafted and led by students themselves, offering unique insights into various traditions, customs, and histories from around the globe.

One of the most anticipated and captivating aspects of the day unfolded in the bustling cafetorium, where International Fest truly came to life through an electrifying showcase of live performances. As the curtains drew open, the audience was greeted with a kaleidoscope of cultural expressions, each dance a testament to the diverse tapestry of traditions that enrich the global community of Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School. The performances transcended boundaries, weaving together the vibrant rhythms and movements that define cultures from around the world.

First up was the dynamic and spirited Dabke, a traditional folk dance originating from the Levant region, characterized by synchronized stomping and lively music that echoed through the halls, setting the stage for an exhilarating journey.

Following closely behind was the captivating allure of Latin American dance, with its vibrant colors, intricate footwork, and infectious energy captivating the audience and transporting them to the heart of Latin American countries' rich cultural heritage.

From there, the atmosphere shifted to the romantic allure of the French Waltz, emanating the elegance and sophistication of French culture, as couples twirled gracefully across the floor, evoking images of grand ballrooms and timeless romance. Then, the rhythm shifted once again to the lively and infectious beats of the Italian mambo, igniting the stage with its exuberance and passion, showcasing the joie de vivre of Italian culture in every hip sway and twirl.

Amidst the rhythmic beats and swirling movements, the graceful Hawaiian hula took center stage, its fluid motions and storytelling elements captivating the hearts of spectators, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and historical significance of this ancient Polynesian dance form.

The excitement continued to build as the performances ventured further eastward, with dazzling displays of traditional dances from Pakistan and India, each step and gesture infused with centuries-old traditions and cultural symbolism.

OLHMS welcomed the dynamic showcase from Richards All American Dance Class, a fusion of styles that celebrated the diversity and unity of American culture. From hip-hop to jazz, tap to contemporary, the performance exemplified the melting pot of influences that define the American dance scene, inspiring applause and admiration from all corners of the cafetorium.

Closing the spectacular lineup were the students who took the stage to perform traditional Mexican music and line dancing, bringing an infectious energy and vibrant spirit to International Fest. With each lively step and rhythmic sway, they immersed the audience in the rich tapestry of Mexican culture, showcasing the colorful traditions and lively rhythms that define this vibrant heritage. From the spirited footwork of traditional Mexican dances to the synchronized movements of line dancing, their performance was a celebration of unity and community, bridging cultural divides and inspiring joy and admiration among all who watched.

As the final notes faded away and the performers took their well-deserved bows, the audience erupted into thunderous applause, filled with a renewed sense of appreciation for the beauty and power of cultural expression through dance. The performances at International Fest not only entertained but also served as a poignant reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures that unite us all.

Film screenings provided another avenue for cultural exploration and reflection. Students watched a variety of films, each offering poignant messages and valuable lessons. Sixth graders were captivated by "Pelé: The Birth of a Legend," seventh graders immersed themselves in "McFarland USA," while eighth graders were inspired by "Queen of Katwe," experiencing storytelling from different corners of the world. Language also took center stage as students delved into the linguistic nuances of Arabic, Spanish, and Urdu, gaining a deeper appreciation for the diverse languages spoken across continents.

Ms. Maan shared how iFest events were chosen for the day: "Activities for the day were chosen with these values in mind: from playing games from different cultures and seeing how they relate to games we may know personally, watching films highlighting stories of powerful individuals around the world, to presentations and performances, every staff and student will be able to “see themselves” in this day on one way or another. Presentations and performances were chosen by the students themselves, planned creatively or choreographed all on their own. I merely served as a guide and facilitator! The magic seen at I-Fest is truly the fruits of our students’ hard work over the past 2.5 months. We are excited to share the world of OLHMS with you all!"

The success of International Fest would not have been possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of over 90 student volunteers who orchestrated interactive presentations, enriching the experience for the entire school community. Special recognition goes to Ms. Maan for her exemplary leadership and organizational prowess in orchestrating the event, alongside the unwavering support and energy of Ms. Sweis and Ms. Ingle.

International Fest at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School served as a poignant reminder of the beauty and strength found in cultural diversity, reinforcing the importance of fostering understanding and respect for all cultures within our global community. As the day drew to a close, students left with hearts full of appreciation and minds enriched with newfound knowledge, ready to embrace the world with open arms.