The vibrant tapestry of flags lined the wall, the enticing aroma of global cuisine wafted through the air, and a cheerful energy filled the cafeteria. AHS’s annual Just World Festival, a cherished tradition held before Heritage Night, was again a resounding success. This year’s festival, the 19th, had a theme of “confidence and culture.”
The Just World Festival, far from being a new addition, is deeply ingrained in our school’s traditions. For years, it has served as a powerful introduction to Heritage Night, amplifying the message of cultural understanding and appreciation. The festival showcases the rich diversity within the school’s students, while also raising awareness about critical global issues and inspiring action.
“Just world and Heritage night are one of my favorite events because it honestly makes everyone feel connected,” senior Allison Rodas said. “Everyone’s there to support everybody no matter where they’re from.”
Booths representing various countries and organizations lined the cafeteria, offering everything from intricate traditional crafts and vibrant clothing to information about fair-trade initiatives and human-rights advocacy.
This year’s guest speaker was Marion Ekpuk, a retired State Department diplomat and leadership coach. Ekpuk served in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Benin, Afghanistan, Mexico, and the Netherlands and spoke to AHS about the importance of confidence and culture.
Sophomore Giancarlos Parada was actively involved in the festival, volunteering his time and enthusiastically sharing his insights. “I think what makes this festival unique is that we all get together as a community so that we can make an impact together,” said.
Parada believes the festival plays a crucial role in cultivating a more inclusive and empathetic school environment.
“The festival has impacted the community over the years because it brought people closer together from all backgrounds to try and make a difference and a better world for everyone.”
The festival also provides a vital platform for students to express their own cultural identities and share their unique stories. Many students proudly displayed traditional clothing, shared cherished family recipes, and performed captivating cultural dances or musical pieces for everyone that was willing to listen.
“The Just World Festival is open to everyone who’s willing to learn about critical issues that are happening in the world and for everyone who wants to make a difference in their local and global communities,” Parada said
The enduring success of the festival can be credited to the passion and dedication of the students, faculty, and community members who work tirelessly to organize and support the event.
“I’m honestly so sad that I won’t be able to go to another one after this year,” Rodas said. “I’ve gone to almost all the Just world festivals in my high school career and they just kept getting better.”
Just World stands as a powerful reminder that education extends beyond the classroom and that diversity is an essential component of preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
“If we want to make a change in our community we need to take action,” sophomore and Just World President Giancarlos Parada said.
