University of California Los Angeles - Bruin Life / Southern Campus Yearbook (Los Angeles, CA)

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' I hope [the students] like it and just get some good vibes from UCLA, renowned as one of the more diverse UC campuses, has developed an interesting network of support and retention for various ethnic groups. While providing tutoring and group study for students, as well as culturally enriching and reaffirming activities, these groups strive to create a strong sense of support on campus. The primary focus of the various groups including, Movimiento Estudiantil Chicana y Chicano de Aztlan, African Student Union, American Indian Student Union, Asian Pacific Coalition, is to encourage education and tolerance of ethnic groups. Although the groups often worked together on complex tiu rn the music. Story by Adrienne Martinez issues such as Affirmative Action, each had a fundamentally different way of spreading information about their culture. They often attempted to organize activities that displayed their heritage to the UCLA and Westwood communities. It was important, especially for first generation college students, to feel they have access to people who have been through the UC system so as to aid in college adjustment, and further encourage participation in community activities. Many of the main ethnic groups on campus hold special graduation ceremonies with famous keynote speakers and cultural entertainment in the form of dancers or ethnic musicians. A majority also sponsored culture nights, such as ASU ' s Pan-African Night, and the APC ' s Lunar New Year festivities. While focusing on educating the UCLA community, many clubs offerred smaller programs that involved hands-on work with traditional textiles and dances. AISA sponsored many such activities, and for a small fee, any student may participate in these programs which have included Dream Catcher workshops. Students in this program were taught folktales and to make ornaments of cultural significance. Many such activities that familiarized students with their heritage were held throughout the year. AISA annually hosted a Pow-Wow or coming together of many tribes to celebrate alliance and peace. Vendors were flown in from reservations around the country, and students were encouraged to participate in the dance competitions, and sample traditional foods. Aside from general education and retention of students, these clubs try to ensure enjoyment for the student body. Many hold dances and group discussions that help students meet others with similar backgrounds and interests. Various UCLA professors have been known to offer their homes for the discussions, and were fully supportive, in both counselor capacity and as cultural reference. These groups contribute greatly to maintaining a peaceful and supportive campus environment that is not only conducive to education, but to the cultural future and awareness of many students. F A An October exhibit in the Kerckholf Gallery, celebrating Filipino I listory Month, included examples of traditional Filipino produced and exported items, as well as posters and photographs depicting Filipino culture. A dancer participates in the F() V V() s annual dance competition. 26 People

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I Photo Coutesy of A?wricv7n Indian Association Ethnic Clubs 27