Cultural Expression Throughout WHS

Brian O'Halloran

Photo of Woodbridge High School.

Savannah Alamo, Reporter

The cultural clubs at Woodbridge High School create a safe place for students to learn more about their own cultures, or any of the cultures that they bring interest too.

One of the important clubs we have in WHS is the International Culture Club (ICC), started around twenty years ago, is run by Ms. Zeitz in room 208. The topics touched upon within the club is Hindu Heritage Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, Multicultural Week, Mardi Gras, Peace Week, Women’s History Month, World Language Week and other cultural topics based on the interests of club members.

The agenda of the club is to spread awareness about the diversity of culture in the students and staff at WHS. Students who participate in the club  receive an increased awareness of other cultures and the ability to appreciate cultures other than their own.

Ms. Zeitz mentions that “The officers of the club demonstrate how they care about the club and its purpose in informing and appreciating diversity of the cultures and preaching acceptance through hard work and dedication. These officers and club members care about culture and diversity not only here in school, but around the world.”. 

Last year’s activities of the ICC included World Book Day where members read a story virtually to students at Ross Street.  They have also delivered flowers to healthcare workers at Bellevue Hospital.  ICC also participated in Peace Day and Earth Day and collected non-perishable food items to be donated to a local food bank. 

The club is run by ICC advisor Ms. Zeitz, student president of the ICC Ylia Thumann, and student secretary Haniya Qureshi.

One of our newest additions to the clubs at WHS is the Asian Pacific Islander club, with the advisor of the club being Mr. Hein. The intention of the club is for students to learn about Asian culture and share their Asian American experiences. It’s a safe space for students to express themselves and socialize. Anyone is welcome, even students who are not of Asian descent. Mr. Hein encourages students to “Come and join us!”. The club meets on selective days throughout the year. Join Mr. Hein’s Google Classroom can be found on the school’s website for more information.

The Chinese Honor society run by Ms. Chen touches upon topics such as Chinese culture and language. This can range from Chinese New Year, chopsticks, and even Chinese movies. The club meets every other Tuesday each month in room D229. 

The Chinese Honor society held and attended cultural activities, performances, fundraising events etc. The goal of the club overall is to just fun activities to get people interested and introduced to Chinese culture. 

Last year the Chinese Honor Society participated in various events such as our high school’s orientation in August, and Trunk or Treat in October. They also successfully launched and completed their snack sale which they plan to make an annual event. 

This year they plan to expand their club by venturing into the community to introduce the Chinese language and culture to senior citizens through various activities. They plan to organize a field trip which will allow students to practice their Chinese and gain hands-on experience in Chinese culture as well.