India, Taiwan, Russia and Vietnam were among the countries that invaded the Union on Sunday afternoon.
Global Festival 2001, an event that debuted 16 years ago at the International Center, attracted hundreds to a variety of activities on three floors of the Union.
“I think it’s a very good event and a good opportunity for us to show students about Greek traditions,” said microbiology graduate student Kostas Konstantinidis.
Konstantinidis was among the many students presenting traditional foods, music, clothing and other objects from dozens of different countries.
As he stamped the special passports given to children for visiting the countries represented, Konstantinidis noted the higher attendance to this year’s festival.
“We participate every year,” he said. “I think this time is more successful, there’s more people. It’s great.”
Other activities included scheduled events in the Union Ballroom, such as the African Student Union Fashion Show and traditional Brazilian music and dancing.
The festival was held in conjunction with the Community Volunteers for International Programs, the University Activities Board and the Office for International Students and Scholars.
Russell Skowronek, an MSU graduate and visiting professor from Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, Calif., attended the festival with his 5-year-old daughter, Olga.
Olga summed up her favorite part of the event in one word.
“Everything,” she said.
“She’s done everything - made beads, tried some foods,” her father said. “We kind of had a little trip around the world here in the Union.”
And Skowronek said MSU is known for its mix of different cultures.
“I think it’s great that Michigan State has always been a real crossroads,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity for students and faculty to learn about different parts of the world.”
Oumatie Marajh, assistant director for the Department of Student Life, said she was happy with the constant increase of visitors to the festival.
“Every year just gets bigger,” she said. “It’s not just students anymore. Now it’s the whole community.”
Marajh said the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks have made the importance of understanding other cultures an even more important issue.
“For awhile, all international students were worried,” she said. “There was so much uncertainty of what would happen, and this is a positive event. It’s good for both sides and for international students to feel safe.”
Peter Briggs, director of the Office for International Students and Scholars, said although he has only been on campus for six weeks, he was impressed with the turnout of everyone, from kids to adults.
“I love the energy that’s here,” he said. “With all cultures underneath one place, there’s so much to learn.”
