The culture of many nations was showcased at St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care-Stein Campus during International Day, Friday, Feb. 24. The program saluted the varied heritages of the children and adults who spend the day together in this unique intergenerational setting.
The celebration took place in the center’s indoor intergenerational park, decorated with the flags of many countries for the occasion. Barry Kress, a client from the Veranda unit, began the program with a Jewish prayer. Next, Hannah Goodness, St. Ann Center’s music therapist and a member of the Caledonian Scottish Dancers, donned traditional tartan and performed the Scottish Lilt and the Highland Fling.
The history and customs of the Oneida nation were brought to life by Debbie Ushakow from Southeastern Oneida Tribal Services. Using a model of a longhouse, she described the 100-yard-long structures where Oneida families lived dating back to the 1700s. Drums, cornhusk dolls, cradleboards and traditional apparel were also displayed. St. Ann Center staff member Rosemarie Alloway, her mother and daughters demonstrated Oneida dancing, inviting members of the audience of all ages and abilities to join them.
In honor of Black History Month, Dominic Long from St. Ann Center’s social services department, performed spoken word poetry. And Adisa Lumumba and her family used dancing and drumming to tell the African folktale of how the spider found wisdom.
“Our adult clients, children and staff come from very diverse backgrounds,” said Sr. Edna Lonergan, St. Ann Center president and founder. “It’s a joy to be able to celebrate the richness of our various cultures together.”