Fox Cities News

Students at Oshkosh West High School experienced a variety of cultural presentations and performances during their annual Diversity Day on April 10, 2025. The event showcased the efforts and talents of students through a series of contemporary and traditional displays.

"The purpose of today is to come together to celebrate and appreciate the plethora of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences that exist in our school," said Issac C.B., student-emcee for the day.

The program featured a blend of performances including a Nepali dance, a traditional Chinese dance by the Oshkosh West Hmong Dance Team, spoken word pieces from Oshkosh West Black Student Union (BSU) members, a Qeej performance, a K-pop dance medley, and another Hmong dance.

An important addition this year was a student panel discussion led by Oshkosh West junior Aria B. This session featured diverse panelists who discussed culture shock, personal identity, adversity, and belonging.

"Within multicultural clubs at school, you can find community in people who have similar experiences to you," said Sarai B., president of the Latin American Club at West. Adding to this, Micah T., president of the BSU, emphasized the opportunity multicultural clubs present to learn about varying groups within the school.

The event also featured a parade that involved participants from various student organizations such as the BSU, GSA, Multicultural Club, and Youth2Youth Advocates for Justice, promoting school spirit as they marched through the building.

Preparations for the day began months in advance, as highlighted by Camilla Y. from the K-Pop Club, noting the extensive rehearsal schedule the club undertook.

First-time and returning participants noted the growth and improvement of Diversity Day. "Diversity Day lets students showcase things that they work really hard on," said Illiana, an alumni attendee. "It's been great to see how far Diversity Day has come since it began," added Siazong V., another alum.

Oshkosh West students and staff concluded Diversity Day with a sense of fulfillment from the day's meaningful discussions and performances.