Self-expression, through fashion, often tells the story of the different parts of one's identity, including their heritage. As one of the diversity chairs, I was excited to highlight the natural integration of fashion and culture through the Diversity Fashion Show, a SWE Illinois first, that does just this.
It is no surprise the immense work that is necessary to coordinate an event that has never been done before, yet filled with so much importance. The purpose of the event was to share the beauty of different cultures through fashion with other SWE members, providing a learning opportunity and new appreciation, however throughout the process of planning this event, I found myself exploring the beauty of other cultures and gaining a new sense of appreciation for my own.
In addition to clothing, food is an important aspect of one's culture, it also has the ability to bring different cultures together for a savory moment. We knew we wanted to highlight as many cultures as we could, thus instead of catering one type of food for the event, my co-chair Sonali and I, packed our reusable grocery bags one Saturday morning to explore the different foods and grocery stores that the Chambana area has to offer. Our first stop was Urbana's World Harvest Market, where we picked up Turkish delights and Chocorooms, a popular chocolate snack from Japan, a favorite of the kind cashier who rang us up. We then made our way to Champaign where we visited Fresh International Market. Next, we visited “Los Paisas", a small family store that transported me to the pueblos my parents grew up in and I spent my summers. I gravitated toward the food and drinks that reminded me of “home”, audibly gasping at each item and sharing my excitement with Sonali. At that moment, I knew I wanted others to have this same experience at the fashion show, their eyes instantly meeting a snack that provides the feeling of “home.” After our shopping spree, we both became extremely excited to share the art of food from different cultures with our peers, not to mention we were excited to try ourselves!
Finally, the day we had been planning for 2 months, February 23rd, arrived. Amazon boxes, filled with world flags, a red carpet, glitter decor, and grocery bags equally full of indulgences from around the world, were hauled up to the JDP. We rolled out the carpet, created a cute photo opportunity, and set up the tables, placing each world flag at the ends of the tables. The food table was filled with colored packaging, many countries were represented within and on display. Unfortunately, we were unable to finish setting up before members arrived, however, we were assisted by our fellow SWEsters who provided a helping hand to make the first Diversity Fashion show a success. Popular dance music from Ukraine to India filled the air, a playlist I happily curated. Smiles were present as participants made their way to the food table. Conversations of where food is from, what it means personally, and encouragement to others to try their “fave.” It was wonderful to see the excitement and sharing of different cultures.
As the show started and the lights dimmed. I admired the beautiful hand-embroidered details of the Vyshyvanka, a traditional Ukrainian blouse. I laughed at Com Serv’s take on dressing as “puns”, each were equally clever. I admired the elegance of the traditional Filipina Baro't Saya, shirt, and skirt. I felt pride in wearing my blousa, an article of clothing that I only thought I would wear once on campus. The laughs, smiles, “oohs” and “aahs” from fellow SWEsters made the event memorable. The Diversity Fashion show was not only a celebration of diversity of culture and fashion, but also highlighted the diversity present in self expression. Although I may not be the diversity chair next school year, I am excited to see what the next Diversity Fashion Show brings!
