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Show B6 CULTURE From B5 Changing perspectives through diversity Courtesy of Kyle Reyes I just wanted to open a door where these students, with these talents and gifts and interests, could be validated and valued," Reyes said. 5 5 "Diversity in and of itself is extremely important for any university campus, because the purpose of a university education is to have students wrestle with ideas and issues so that they know where they stand as they go out in the community and make a difference in whatever field they are go- ing into," Reyes said. Reyes has helped students and even the community itself see a different perspective through the "Hidden Voices" exhibit, which featured selected pieces from graffiti artists. The exhibit, which Reyes contributed to as an artist, had over 2500 people come through, making it the most wellattended exhibit the Woodbury museum has ever had. "'Hidden Voices' is just an extension of that commitment for me, to say, 'What is one of our underserved communities that is labeled bad?' ... I just wanted to open a door where these students, with these talents and gifts and interests, could be validated and valued," Reyes said. Through his efforts, Reyes has created a dialogue about diversity and "invites [students] to look at the world differently, from new lenses, new perspectives and new cultures." Middle Eastern night brings fun and food By David Self Newlin Editor-In-Chief get to see on television. "[The Middle East] has more culture and taste to it than ... what Complex rhythms and Middle the news shows. We have differEastern melodies flowed from ent cultures in the Middle East that the entrance of the International [you] can enjoy in different ways," Student Center like water from a said Lydia Hailemariam, vicefountain as dozens ate, danced and president for the Middle Eastern celebrated an ancient and influen- Region of the ISC. tial group of cultures. Giving an accurate impression In the midst of turmoil and up- of the culture was not the only risings throughout the greater Mid- point, however. Having a blast dle Eastern world and a constant was also a central part of the evebarrage of news reports devoid of ning's agenda. context and history, the InternaHailemariam served up fragrant tional Student Council sponsored rice, kabob and huge trays baklava Middle Eastern Night on April 7. to guests, all foods common to the It was a chance for students and many countries represented there. families to experience the flavors, "[It was] a fun opportunity to sounds and sights they don't often meet people, enjoy the food, the culture and have fun," said Chris Chacon, who works with the ISC. Flags from all over the region hung and lent a feeling of unity to the event. Students from Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Algeria and elsewhere mingled with curious Utahans experiencing just a touch and a taste of something different. What held everyone's attention through the evening, though, was a lot of skilled and sultry belly dancing. Skirts jangled and finger cymbals rang brightly as three women performed difficult routines and moves for guests. Belly dancing is common in the region and originated out of cabarets and shows for men. According to dancer Kate Woolfe, this dance was a way for men to appreciate the female form and sexuality without breaking traditional mores. This didn't seem to put anyone off, however, as almost everyone watched and clapped, with some snapping pictures and taking videos. The night ended with more music and an impromptu dance party. Children and adults alike took to the floor with the belly dancers and danced to the melodious lines permeating the air. Judging by the smiles on the hundred or so people that came, the evening was a total success. Here's to hoping it happens again soon. (801) 863-8641 TOLL FREE 866-507-5253 Tuesday April 19 Your Campus. Your Needs. Your Store. Share the magic APPLE TAX April 1st to April 30th Buy a book at the UVU Bookstore and donate it to First Book to promote literacy in Utah County and receive credit For UVU Library fines. FREE DAY flawed and SAVE 20 070 Off Don't Pay Any SALES TAX on Apple Products including computers, software, AppleCare, iPods, and accessories. This is in addition to the great Educational Discounts Apple offers. Offer limited to quantities on hand. Must be current UVU Student, faculty, of staff to participate. U1111 BOOKSTORE Year Tolle s. Tear Noels. TIM Sure. by BOOKSTORE 111.1 LIBRARY Visit Us Online www.uvu.edu/ bookstore The Retail Price o LL CHILDREN BOOKS Purchased for the FIRST BOOK PROGRAM SAVE |