Many of Needham’s varied cultures will be on display Sunday, Oct. 20, at the second annual Multicultural Festival. Individuals representing countries from across the globe, including Asia, South America, the Middle East and Europe, will share information about their heritage, traditions and foods, along with art, music and dance performances.
Sponsored by the Needham Human Rights Committee and the Needham Diversity Initiative, the event is aimed at creating greater awareness about the variety of cultures among Needham residents. “The diversity is here and any opportunity we have that can highlight that and celebrate it together I think makes us a stronger community,” said Keith LaFace, chair of the event.
Needham resident Danielle Rodriguez agrees. She grew up in Colombia and will participate in the festival with her family. “It’s a great opportunity to build community, she said. “Needham has been very welcoming to us. There are not a lot of Colombians in Needham, so for me it’s important that my children see that it’s good to be proud of your heritage, especially when you’re not the majority.”
Rodriguez noted negative media stereotypes about Latinos and sees the festival as a chance to share about her culture in a positive way. “I think it’s about awareness and about exposure. If you haven’t been exposed to other cultures you’re missing out on a lot,” she said. “You can read books and you can watch shows, but there’s nothing like actually being in contact with the people and seeing them firsthand. I think it does make a difference.”
Last year’s inaugural festival was at Town Hall and drew more than 700 people. LaFace said this year’s event will take place at Needham High School, both to provide more space and to involve NHS students who were interested in being part of a multicultural event. In addition to the country presenters there will be participation by community organizations who work with different cultures in town.
The Multicultural Festival will run from 1-5 p.m. and is free and open to the public. It is co-sponsored by the Needham Resilience Network and the Needham Rotary Club. Space is still available for country presenters. To participate contact festival organizers
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