As students leave high school and enter college, they are exposed to much more diversity. This may be the key reason why cultural days, a celebration of international identities in a school setting, have been called effective. The Drexel University School of Education has shown that “students who learn about different cultures during their education feel more comfortable and safe with these differences later in life.” 

Exposing students to vast cultural differences in a gratifying way has been proven to be enlightening for their compassion when working and sympathizing with others of different identities. Currently, Wantagh High School does not host any cultural day events, and the question stands of whether a cultural event should be incorporated into the school year. 

Wantagh sophomore Riana Singh, a former Queens resident at a school with a cultural day, explained how their cultural day encompassed dressing up in traditional outfits, making different foods, and dancing to traditional music. 

Wantagh sophomore Miles Dale, another former Queens resident whose previous school had a cultural day, was asked whether they had enjoyed their cultural day or not. They stated, “People get to know about new cultures, and you find pride to see your culture shine. It’s very pleasing.” 

The final question presented to the students was whether they thought Wantagh High School should have a cultural day. Singh asserted her belief in the importance of paying attention to students of all cultures and expanding the knowledge of students on the traditions of the world. On the other hand, Dale expressed uncertainty about what a cultural day at Wantagh might look like, given that the school is not as diverse as their previous school. Taking these details into account, it may or may not be beneficial for our school to host a cultural day.