Prosperity, longevity, and luck are the symbols of the year for people who celebrated the Chinese Lunar New Year festival Friday with UNCG. The Chinese Studies department created an amazing atmosphere on January 27, with educational booths about different aspects of Chinese culture, presentations by students, and entertainment from local performers.
“I wanted to spread awareness of Chinese culture because it’s a beautiful culture. The language is beautiful, the dance is beautiful, the music is beautiful, and the food is amazing,” says Communications major Dre Fulton. “There are so many things that go unsaid about cultures, especially in America, so shedding light on one helps unite us all. I’m volunteering with the Chinese Culture and Language Association (CCLA), showcasing simple Chinese games like Go and Chinese Checkers. We’re having a very big turnout and I’m happy to see it.”
The year of the rabbit comes along every twelve years. If you were born in the years 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, or 1963, the rabbit is your Chinese Zodiac sign. According to the Zodiac, you might have the strengths of politeness, cautiousness, and responsibility. You would likely be characterized by your friends as easygoing, tender, patient, kind, and reliable.
Daphne Keat, another Communications Studies major with a minor in Business, volunteered to help host the photo booth. “We have different props such as swords and cultural clothing such as the qipao and a backdrop that patrons can take photos with to appreciate the culture. I got involved by taking Chinese language classes with Dr. Meiqing Sun. She encouraged me to volunteer for this. This is a great way for us to help the Chinese program and learn more about the heritage behind it.”
The Chinese Studies program has celebrated the Chinese Lunar New year for 11 consecutive years. This year was the return of an in-person event. The program provides elementary through advanced level Language, Literature, and Culture courses, as well as academic experiences that highlight oral and written literacy, literary analysis, and cross-cultural studies. Students from all programs were welcome to come to experience the festival firsthand.
Students can get involved with the Chinese Department by joining the Chinese language club, taking classes with the CCLA, or attending events such as the Lunar New Year and the Autumn festival.
Story by Dana Broadus, University Communications
Photography by Sean Norona, University Communications
