Name: John Coleman
Course: SDE1010-901-FA24: First Year Experience (08.19.24 -
11.08.24)
Lecturer: Meagan Zoladz
Assignment: Community Activity Paper
For this assignment, I attended the Multicultural Expo on September 14, 2024, at 128 E Spring
St, Lima, Ohio. The theme of the event was "Flags from Across the Nations," which featured a
colorful array of flags, performances, food, and music from different countries. The expo was an
opportunity to explore and celebrate cultural diversity, and it provided an environment where I
was among a minority group, surrounded by individuals with distinct cultural identities and
experiences.
As I walked through the venue, I was immediately struck by the vibrancy of the flags, each
representing a different nation. The performances, cuisine, and art reflected the unique
customs and heritage of many ethnic groups. Being outside of these cultural groups, I found
myself surrounded by people whose cultural backgrounds were different from my own, and this
made me feel like I was in the minority. It was a new experience for me, as I had not previously
attended an event that focused so heavily on cultural diversity.
One of the most impactful moments for me was when I had the chance to try foods I had never
tasted before. Each dish had its own story, and through the flavors and ingredients, I began to
appreciate the diversity of cultural expressions through food. Additionally, watching the
performances—ranging from traditional dances to music from different parts of the world—
allowed me to see the deep connection people have to their cultural roots.
Interacting with others at the event further deepened my understanding of cultural diversity. I
spoke with attendees from various backgrounds, and it was fascinating to hear about their
personal stories and experiences. Many of them shared how proud they were of their heritage,
and it was evident that cultural identity played an important role in shaping their worldview. I
realized that while I may not have had the same cultural experiences, I could still learn and
connect with others by being open-minded and respectful.
This event not only broadened my understanding of other cultures, but it also challenged my
perspective on what it means to be in the minority. Being surrounded by people who were
different from me in terms of ethnicity, language, and cultural practices made me reflect on the
significance of embracing diversity. It was a reminder of how important it is to celebrate cultural
differences rather than shy away from them.
Attending the Multicultural Expo helped me realize the importance of fostering inclusivity in my
personal and professional life. It’s easy to stay within the comfort of familiar surroundings, but
stepping outside that bubble allows for growth and the opportunity to connect with people
from diverse backgrounds. I now understand that true global awareness requires an openness
to others and a willingness to learn from experiences that may initially feel unfamiliar.
This experience will undoubtedly influence how I approach future interactions with people from
different cultural backgrounds. I plan to seek out more opportunities to engage in events like
this, as they provide invaluable perspectives that can shape a more inclusive worldview. It was
an eye-opening experience that not only expanded my knowledge of other cultures but also
reinforced the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in our increasingly
interconnected world.
