West Hartford’s Bugbee Elementary School Hosted an International Night to help foster cross-cultural understanding.

Submitted by Stacy Silk Rome

More than 200 families celebrate Bugbee Elementary School’s International Hands of Friendship. Photo credit: Liz Calvi/IRIS Photography

Lloyd H. Bugbee Elementary School in West Hartford offered an exciting new perspective on International Night on Feb. 26, 2015. For the first time, the event focused on the concept of friendship, with the aim of fostering a culture of peace.

With today’s global issues, it is imperative to collectively promote the goal of world peace. International Hands of Friendship featured close to 40 countries, and allowed Bugbee students to learn first-hand about inclusion and cross-cultural understanding.

As the world is becoming more divided, it has never been more important for students to have a clear understanding and acceptance of the customs of other cultures. The event provided the opportunity for students to draw parallels between their own culture and those of their fellow Bugbee families, and build not only knowledge, but also a true respect for others.

Each country’s booth taught the children how to say “friend” in their native language, while offering fascinating facts about their culture. More than 200 families enjoyed the experience of building a peaceful and better world through education, and the creation of mutual understanding. The event celebrated the spirit of friendship and solidarity.

Bugbee’s International Night was the most robust effort to date-with families coming together to share their unique traditions, and to gain a broader perspective on the world.

The cultural offerings included art, dress, music, an international talent show and sports activities, as well as an International Café featuring homemade food from around the world. Various educational activities, such as a large-scale scavenger hunt, helped students to benefit from an interactive learning experience that extended beyond the classroom.