QHSS Students Brighten the Gymnasium at the Diwali Festival

Anticipation filled the air as the crowd waited patiently. The music started, instantly transporting the audience to a different atmosphere. The crowds clapped loudly as the dancing commenced, dancers twirling in harmony, the brightly colored outfits sparkling in the bright room. 

This was just a small portion of the excitement and joy felt during the Diwali event in the gymnasium from periods 1 to 3 on November 17th, 2023. 

The event started with a speech by Ashton Baldeo regarding the traditions and significance of Diwali, which is “also known as the Festival of Lights and symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness.” This was followed by dance performances by QHSS Taalaam and the K-Pop group. QHSS Taalam graced the stage with three performances, the first being from the freshmen, then the juniors and seniors respectively. Next, the K-Pop group performed “What is Love?” by TWICE.

Finally, the results of the rangoli competition were announced, after each grade’s representatives created the rangolis.

The event was coordinated by Sona George, who is an educator at QHSS, as well as the QHSS Taalam and SGO. Mr. George divulged that the event was done to promote cultural diversity and awareness within the student body, as well as strengthen the school community. Furthermore, the event was also a conduit for students to dress in their cultural clothing, which according to Mr. George, was encouraged by members of the school’s administration including Principal DeJesus and Dr. Prince, who also donned cultural clothing.

This long-standing tradition was also a way for students to become familiar with the traditions and festivities of other cultures and religions as well as indulge in and appreciate the diverse community at QHSS. 

Many students, including SGO president Ruitian Zhu, echoed the sentiment that it was “good to see that so many students were willing to show their cultural spirit in this event, and it was amazing.”