Cultural Programming & Awareness
May is Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month and at Washington and Lee, the Pan Asian Association for Cultural Exchange sponsors a host of events that are entertaining as well as educational as a means of showcasing the history, culture, and achievements of Asians and Pacific Islanders. Events include lectures, karaoke, displays, and Asian heritage dinners in the Marketplace.
Historian Carter G. Woodson is credited with creating the concept of a period of reflection on the accomplishments, history, and culture of African Americans. Established on February 12, 1926, the celebration was just a week long and occurred that week to honor the births of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. In 1976, the celebration was expanded to an entire month to celebrate the country’s bicentennial. In 2000, President Bill Clinton proclaimed February as National African American History Month. As a part of W&L’s celebration of Black History Month, the university invites a prominent African American to campus to lecture.
Washington and Lee University celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a host of educational and social events that highlight the cultures and achievements of Hispanic peoples across the globe. From movies in the Stackhouse Theater to dance performances and other events, Washington and Lee provides students with the opportunity to celebrate the Hispanic culture.
RPC is a regionally based conference designed especially for undergraduate members and advisors of African-American Collegiate Greek Lettered Fraternities and Sororities from both Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUS) and Predominately White Institutions (PWIs). The conference is developed and sponsored by The Harbor Institute, an educational firm that empowers students to excel. Co-hosted by Washington and Lee University (Lexington, Virginia) the conference targets students, student service professionals and organization advisors in the Virginia and West Virginia area.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is celebrated on the campus of Washington and Lee University with a birthday party for the children of the community, a lecture delivered by a distinguished guest who embodies the spirit of Dr. King, and a time of remembrance.
