The University of Westminster celebrated Lunar New Year with a variety of World in Westminster Cafes across its campuses, honouring its rich traditions and fostering a sense of unity and inclusivity across the University’s diverse community.
Between 10 – 13 February the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion team, in collaboration with the International Student Support team, ran multiple events to mark Lunar New Year, celebrated by many as the Chinese New Year.
On 10 February the Regent Street Campus was adorned with festive decorations and filled with the joyful sounds of celebration as it welcomed the first day of the Lunar New Year. The calligraphy workshop provided a serene space for students and guests to explore the art of traditional Chinese writing, deepening their cultural understanding and appreciation. The captivating Lion Dance performance symbolised the ushering in of prosperity and good fortune for the Year of the Dragon. The event was attended by a range of Westminster colleagues and students, including Interim Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Employability and Global Engagement Professor Dibyesh Anand, supporting those who may have been feeling homesick during the festive season.
The festivities continued at the Harrow Campus on 13 February, where an overwhelming turnout of students, University colleagues and guests embraced the spirit of the Lunar New Year. The dynamic Lion Dance performance captivated the audience as well as the vibrant workshop provided by the Chinese Society. The heartfelt speeches from Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Peter Bonfield, Professor Anastasios Maragiannis, Associate Head of the College of Design, Creative and Digital Industries, Head of School in Westminster School of Media and Communications, Michaela O’Brien and other faculty members emphasised the importance of cultural diversity and inclusivity within the University community.
Beyond the festivities, the Lunar New Year events provided an opportunity for students and University colleagues to come together and celebrate a shared cultural heritage of diversity from around the world. These gatherings exemplified the spirit of unity and cooperation that defines the Westminster community, fostering meaningful connections and friendships.
About the celebrations Professor Anand said: "As a University that is global, we are keen to celebrate various traditional and cultural festivals in an inclusive manner through our World in Westminster Cafes. Lunar New Year, that is marked in different ways around various parts of East Asia, is one such festival. We are keen to make everyone from diverse backgrounds feel that Westminster is their home.”
Edgar Lee, International Student Support Officer, in the College of Design, Creative and Digital Industries, added: “At the University of Westminster, we embrace cultural exchange and learning as integral parts of the student experience. The Lunar New Year celebrations served as a platform for students to engage in cross-cultural dialogue, learn about traditions from around the world and forge lasting connections with peers from diverse backgrounds. As we reflect on the joyous moments shared during the Lunar New Year celebrations, let us carry forward the spirit of unity, inclusivity and cultural appreciation in all that we do. Together, we embrace diversity as a source of strength and inspiration, enriching our university community and shaping a brighter future for all.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to the entire organising committee, including the EDI team and student helpers, for their dedication and hard work in bringing these celebrations to life. Special thanks to Peter, Dibyesh, Michaela and Anastasios for their exemplary leadership and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion across our campuses.”
Celebrations that bring different cultures together contribute towards Reduced Inequalities, one of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which were adopted by the University of Westminster to help make the University a more sustainable, responsible and inclusive place to live, work and study.
Find out more about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Westminster.
