Westminster celebrates tradition, community and diversity at Thanksgiving event

This year’s Thanksgiving event took place at Westminster’s student residence Alexander Fleming Hall in central London and was a landmark moment for celebrating the tradition and showcasing the newly opened student common room. Hosted by the Residential team, with collaborative support from the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and Global Mobility teams, the event brought together over 60 attendees and their friends from the University’s Marylebone Campus and Alexander Fleming Halls.

The event celebrated the holiday in style with a potluck, a turkey centrepiece, a Thanksgiving quiz where attendees learned about the holiday’s history and a Gratitude Wall where people could add their very own heartfelt messages. The event fostered a sense of belonging and highlighted the power of cultural exchange.

Bailey Hawsey, a Digital Media and Journalism BA Honours student, said: "Having the opportunity to celebrate a cultural festival that means so much to me personally with our university environment was a great feeling. It was also beautiful to see such a diverse range of students from different cultures, nationalities and backgrounds engaging with the events. This exchange and sharing of customs and traditions was the highlight of the event, and one that embodies the inclusive and diverse atmosphere of Westminster."

Nevena Martinovic, a Law LLB Honours student, added: "The Thanksgiving event at Alexander Fleming Hall was a wonderful opportunity for many of us to connect with our nationality and history. The event was attended by many Americans, as well as those not from the United States, providing an environment where we could all learn and share our experiences. It was wonderful to see a diverse group of students come together to express gratitude and appreciation.”

Edgar Lee and Melissa Ramos Peimbert shared: “As international student champions, it was fulfilling to collaborate with the Residential and Global Mobility teams to create a safe and welcoming space. The event celebrated the equality, diversity and inclusion values that define ‘being Westminster’. The vibrant atmosphere and meaningful exchanges turned the newly opened common room into a hub of connection and community - a promising start for more initiatives to come.”

This event directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.  

Find out more about upcoming Equality, Diversity and Inclusion events at the University of Westminster.