Exploring Global Cultures in Jackson
Jackson, Mississippi, is a city that celebrates its rich diversity and cultural heritage. In an effort to educate the younger generation about the world around them, an event called Global Fest took place on Friday, July 18, at the New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church’s Gym. This was the first year that the event was hosted, and it aimed to introduce children to various cultures from around the globe.
The event was supported by a $40K grant designed to help students visit the Two Mississippi Museums. Shameka Reed, the executive director of Global Gateways, emphasized the importance of cultural awareness in today’s classrooms. “When you look at Jackson, Jackson really has a growing international population,” she said. “And we want to make sure that students know about different continents, about different countries, and, you know, are very culturally aware, because their classrooms are very diverse and very cultured.”
Upon arrival, children were given a “passport” to take notes as they explored the event. They then followed a tour guide through a path marked with QR codes for each of the seven continents. The guide would scan the code to watch a video about the continent they were visiting, providing an interactive learning experience.
After learning about the continents, the kids had the opportunity to use VR headsets that transported them into virtual environments representing different global landscapes. From the lush forests of South America to the vast savannas of Africa and even the icy terrain of Antarctica, the experience was both educational and engaging. Nearby, there was a table offering food from Italy, Vietnam, and India, allowing children to taste different cuisines from around the world.
One of the event’s partners, the Magnolia Medical Foundation, provided free backpacks to any child who wanted one. These bookbags were filled with essential school supplies needed for the upcoming school year. Erica Thompson, the executive director of the Magnolia Medical Foundation, explained the significance of the initiative. “Inside of the bookbags they’ll have all the supplies they’ll need for the school year,” she said. “So, this allows them to be organized, and they go to school ready to learn.”
Following the educational stations, the children were treated to performances showcasing different cultural traditions. The event began with a dance performance by a lady dressed in traditional West Indian clothing. The kids then enjoyed mariachi music and a percussion performance on a West African djembe, giving them a glimpse into the vibrant arts of various cultures.
Global Fest not only provided a fun and interactive way for children to learn about the world but also highlighted the importance of cultural awareness and inclusivity. By bringing together elements of education, technology, and tradition, the event offered a unique opportunity for the younger generation to explore and appreciate the diverse backgrounds that make up their community.
