Asia Day brings diverse culture to Pembroke

By Robert Deckert
Staff Writer

Asia Day provides opportunity for UNC Pembroke’s Asian and Asian-American population to introduce their cultures to the rest of the students and community.
           
The second annual Asia Day was held on Nov. 15 at the University Center.
           
The event was sponsored by the English Language Institute and additional assistance was provided by the Asian restaurants:

China Eight, East Wind and Jade Garden that donated some of the Asian dishes for the community to sample.
           
Some of the countries that were represented in displays were Thailand, Korea, Japan, The Philippines, India, Singapore and China.
           
Artifacts as well as other elements of the Asian cultures were also on display.
           
English as a Second Language students provided workshops for their fellow students to partake in various Asian activities, such as Chinese and Korean calligraphy as well as the art of origami.
           
Dr. Emiko Mizunuma, director of the English Language Institute, said, “Asia Day is a nice opportunity for international students to get to know people on campus and bring Asian culture to UNCP.”
           
One ESL student, Ying Yan Li, demonstrated the gracefulness of the martial arts style, T’ai Chi.
           
Another activity in which students could get their hands on was the Jian Zhi workshop. Jian Zhi is a traditional, folk form of art which China popularizes the most. 
           
Dr. Robert Schneider,  associate vice chancellor for International Programs, said, “I am extremely proud of our international students as a group.”
           
Schneider also said expressed his gratitude for the students bringing Asia to Pembroke.
           
Students were also given a chance to participate in the drawings for Asian door prizes.
           
Other events at Asia Day were dances, musical performances and a fashion show that all reflected the diversity and beauty of the Asian culture.
           
Dr. Emi Mizunuma also encouraged students who were inspired to learn more about Asia to drop by the office of International Programs for volunteer and travel opportunities offered by UNCP.