Culture Night is a unique annual tradition at Brigham Young University–Hawaii. Culture and special interests clubs on campus gather their members to learn and rehearse dances and skits representing their culture at this two-night event. It is an opportunity for students to develop an understanding and respect for cultures worldwide as they engage through dance and song. Culture Night celebrates the university's mission and cultural diversity and promotes international peace.
This being Culture Night's "comeback" year, there was an incredible buzz and special feeling in the crowd and for the performers. At the beginning the COVID-19 pandemic, with great disappointment, Culture Night was canceled in 2020. The following year in 2021, Culture Night consisted of only nine culture club performances. Live audience seating in the Cannon Activities Center was significantly limited compared to years past as a precaution to current events at the time.
This year's event had 27 presenting clubs with a live audience that filled the Cannon Activities Center and 4,000 plus online viewers. Both nights were packed with excitement and cheers as the campus community gathered to support students who dedicated time and effort to connect with their roots and learn of other's cultures.
Newly appointed senior manager of the Student Leadership & Service department, Terry Moeai, stated the following, "This was a very special event because it was the first full-scale in-person Culture Night that we have had since the COVID-19 pandemic. We are extremely grateful to the President's Council for their support in allowing the students to perform and represent their cultures on a global stage before their family, friends, and communities."
"One of the most memorable things that I experienced was witnessing the students plan, organize, and execute this unique event. We have exceptional students who will lead in their families, communities, and the Church." Those who participated in or attended Culture Night are sure to remember and cherish it as part of their experiences here at BYU–Hawaii.
