Asians, Pacific Islanders showcase culture, tradition

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Vine | Petty Officer 2nd Class David SanLuis, an aviation maintenance administration with USF-I resource management office (left), Spc. Charlene Mendiola, a print journalist with USF-I public affairs (center), Master Sgt. Jeffrey Joven, non-commissioned officer in charge with Advise and Assist Brigade (Right), perform a cultural dance from the island of Guam that showcases the warmth and hospitality of its people and culture.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

05.21.2011

Story by Spc. Charlene Apatang Mendiola 

U.S. Forces Iraq

BAGHDAD - The United States Forces – Iraq equal opportunity office hosted a capstone showcase for deployed service members to celebrate the culture, traditions, and history of Asian and Pacific Islanders in the Al Faw Palace, May 21.

The United States celebrates the contributions and accomplishments of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans every May. This year’s theme is diversity, leadership, empowerment and beyond.

More than 80 volunteers including service members, contractors and Department of Defense civilians participated in the 90-minute event.

The wide array of cultural dances, chants, flags, costumes and food tastings were shared as a form of education and awareness for all who attended the showcase.

The Asian Pacific American Heritage month designation encompasses more than 50 ethnic groups representing a vast array of languages and cultures. These groups include Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Indian, Laotian, Cambodian, Hmong, Thai, Pakistani, Samoan, Guamanian and other smaller groups within the Asia-Pacific region.

• Date Taken: 05.21.2011
• Date Posted: 05.29.2011 06:38
• Story ID: 71278
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ