Grade 10K Assembly: Cultural Sensitivity and Tolerance

The assembly hosted by MYP5 K (Grade 10) on cultural sensitivity on Monday, 6 October had a strong message for its audience. The theme of the assembly was culture and religion. It showcased how in different situations cultures unite or divide people, how cultures are misrepresented and misinterpreted, and how, under the blanket of culture, we are all the same.

The importance of cultural sensitivity and the blinding stereotypes which plague our minds were highlighted. Cultural stereotypes of Africa were depicted through dance and drama, followed by a powerful speech retaliating against the “misleading light” that Africa is shown in by the media and informing people about the rich and underexplored culture of Africa.

The stage was next taken over by zestful dancers illustrating the celebration of Navratri in India, a festival that brings people together from different parts of the country, portraying the positive influence of religion on culture and what pluralism is all about. It was rightly described as “a beacon of pluralism” and urged all to inculcate and promote values of peaceful coexistence.

The mood soon changed as the Israeli-Palestine war was brought to life on stage with intense dialogues in the form of a role play. It was followed by a speech where the role of media in using religion and culture as “scapegoats” as a cover-up for political propaganda causing friction between the two communities worldwide was talked about. The importance of religious and cultural tolerance and to uphold peace and harmony in the society was reflected upon.

Following that was the Spanish festival “La Tomatina” where two Spanish natives conversed about the importance of this festival and how people from all over the world come to Spain to celebrate this festival to forget about their worries and just enjoy what the world has to offer, which is of course squashed tomatoes sapping against your skin. Although Tomatina has no historical explanation as to why it’s celebrated, it has helped to bring people closer, and has helped us believe that together we are an indestructible force of joy.

The assembly concluded with students representing different cultures coming together, holding hands as they stood shoulder to shoulder, embracing their differences and flaws, like pieces of a puzzle fitting together.

By Arshiya Malik
Student – MYP 5 (Grade 10 K)