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Grace Cheng (she/her/hers), Low Entropy Volunteer Writer

Cultural identity and celebrations have become increasingly important parts of our lives. Celebrations are often a time for families and friends to get together, connect with our heritage and strengthen our sense of cultural identity. Celebrations and cultural identities reflect how we identify ourselves within communities. Cultural identity and celebrations can give us a deeper understanding of ourselves, our culture and our world.

• Learning Unique Histories and Cultures

Celebrations serve as a reminder of identity and heritage through holiday traditions, traditional dress and religious beliefs. By participating in them, you have the opportunity to learn about different cultures’ history, traditions and language. Understanding a diversity of cultural norms and values can allow us to appreciate and respect those cultures that are different from ours. By studying how different cultures have adapted and evolved, we can gain insight into our own cultures and the reasons we do or do not do certain things.

• Preserving Traditions and Heritage

Celebrations of culture play an important role in preserving traditions and promoting cultural heritage. By participating in these festivities, we can preserve knowledge and practices passed down from generation to generation. Taking part in these events not only allows individuals to better understand their roots, but also preserves and promotes their cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

• The Power of Unity and Belonging

Cultural celebrations foster a sense of belonging within a community by bringing people together. Whether it happens during a religious festival, a national holiday or a traditional ceremony, these events provide a platform for individuals to connect with others, to meet and build relationships. A community’s activities serve as catalysts for social interaction, breaking down barriers and creating togetherness. Being connected to others and feeling a sense of belonging are important for personal well-being and can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

• Appreciating Diversity

Cultural celebrations highlight the richness of different cultures and promote diversity. Culture and festivals offer opportunities to experience and appreciate foods, music, art, clothing and traditions from various ethnicities. By experiencing different cultures, we gain a deeper understanding and respect for them, fostering a tolerant, inclusive society.

• Generational Learning

Celebrations provide an opportunity to educate and impart cultural values to future generations. Using rituals, storytelling and traditional practices, children and young adults can gain an understanding of their cultural values, ethics and morals. These celebrations allow elders to pass on wisdom and knowledge to future generations, preserving and upholding their culture’s values.

• Celebrating Achievements and Milestones

A cultural celebration is an opportunity to mark significant milestones and achievements in one’s life, from graduations to weddings. As a result of these events, individuals can reflect on their personal growth and accomplishments, as well as celebrate them formally and informally with loved ones and the wider community.

• Building Pride and Confidence

Celebrations of culture instill pride and confidence in individuals. These events foster an understanding of self-worth and empowerment by giving individuals an opportunity to highlight their culture, traditions and talents. Cultural celebrations reflect cultural resilience and strength.

A cultural celebration is not just a time for joy and merriment, it also offers valuable lessons and opportunities for community development and personal growth. We should remember that celebrations are more than just events, they reflect who we are as individuals and as a community. Let us embrace and celebrate the richness and diversity of cultures around us, for there is much to be learned and enjoyed.

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Grace has an accounting and finance background. She enjoys reading, writing, listening to music, watching movies and playing sports.