Community invited to observe indigenous customs

The UAA Human Services Club invites the community to an observance of indigenous customs, to rejoice in the spice of life at the Diversity Conference and Celebration on Saturday, April 5, noon-5:30 p.m. in the UAA Cuddy Center.

The event will feature a keynote speaker, ethnic foods and a panel discussion on current issues regarding cultural groups around Alaska.

William Bacon III will speak about a film he helped make about the Native practices of whaling and the attempts made by others to outlaw the practice, even for those who use it for subsistence. Other events include a fashion show of traditional clothing from around the world; Filipino, Polynesian and Alaska Native dance group performances; and craft workshops to get an idea of what goes into creating Native artwork.

The UAA Human Services Club and its co-hosts for this event, the UAA Career Services Center and The Dean of Students Office, share a common goal: to emphasize the importance of preserving culture and cultural identity in today's society in order to celebrate the wide variety of individuals who work together both on campus and around the state. This event is free and open to the public.

For more information call 786-4513.