Food shapes our culture and how we identify ourselves,” stated Kendria Dickson, MPH, B’05, and guest speaker of the Diversity Club’s annual International Night. While International Night showcased several international dances and a talk on public health, perhaps the biggest attraction was the full array of ethnic dishes.
The evening began with samples of international cuisine made by Bellarmine families. Nearly every continent (except for Australia, South America, and Antarctica) was represented. Among many other dishes, delicious yoba from Africa, wontons and egg rolls from Asia, German potato salad from Europe, and even that traditional American dish, fried chicken and collard greens, was available to try. Pantika, which is a sweet Greek cake, and Egyptian coconut triangles (similar to macaroons) were the evening’s two ethnic desserts.
As everyone ate, parent Gloriose Sakubu-Rothrock demonstrated how to prepare the African dish yoba, or roasted peanuts. Despite being the shortcut microwave version, it was still a delicious snack.
The event moved into the theatre, everyone finished dinner, for a presentation by guest speaker Dickson and several dances.
Dickson discussed the issues surrounding food today and how food relates to public health. She talked about how we can combat “health inequalities,” which are “the disparities in public health,” and about how we can keep our own bodies healthy. Achieving a healthy public is a lofty goal, but it is also a necessary goal.

After the presentation, the Ugandan Star Dancers took the stage. Their two dances, which were inspired by their Ugandan origins, were both exciting and upbeat. The three girls brought a tangible energy to the entire theatre.

The Pilipino American Youth Organization, or PAYO, also presented two dances. The first performance, which involved using coconut halves for rhythm, was a unique mix of rhythm and dance. The second, and most exciting of the two dances, celebrated a large catch of fish. The performers brought out two large bamboo poles which they tapped on the ground while another dancer hopped in between. It was sort of like an artistic and more dangerous version of jump rope.

After attending International Night, it is difficult to be unimpressed by the talent and diversity of Bellarmine’s community. And, besides, with an evening of family, friends, and free food, what’s not to like?