Many cheered as music, dance and poetry performances started the Multicultural Expo Tuesday night in the D.P Culp University Center. Katy Hardison, a financial aid counselor, presented a poetry piece on the power of words and how they can have a positive and negative affect on people.

“When people say particular words, they really don’t think about the meaning,” Hardison said. “Words do hurt, but they can also be very strong.”

Different organizations took part in the Expo to discuss the numerous types of cultural groups that take place on campus.

“I think the Expo is a really good way to bring students together,” Laura Terry, director of multicultural affairs, said. “I enjoy seeing talents from different cultures.”

Carol Davis, vice president of Silent Bucs and a graphic design major, took part in the program by signing to the audience the importance of her group.

“I like the Expo because it shows diversity in where you are from and your different background,” Davis signed through Interpreter Jenny Page. “It’s not all about hearing. But if we can see things and taste foods from different cultures, then we are exposed to diversity.”

Other groups were also represented, such as the Women’s Studies Organization, the International Learning Community (ILC) and Buctainment.

ILC has many events coming up such as a Dinner and Movie night on Sept. 24, which will be presented by Buctainment.

“We have a lot of fun putting together activities for students,” Christy Miller, coordinator of ILC, said. “The Housing and Residence Department sponsors events, so they are free to students.”

The Expo ended with stepping performances by four multicultural fraternities and sororities.

“I think it is important to exhibit diversity around campus,” Student Government President Chad Hall said. “It’s not always easily recognizable. A lot of people were brought together in one night to embrace each other’s differences.

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