Skyline’s MECCA program hosted an event Dec. 3, bringing awareness about Middle Eastern culture and highlighting the traditions that define their culture. There was cultural music and a diverse menu of foods ranging from Middle Eastern fruits, vegetables, and different types of meats, all of which were free for anyone that came.
“Our goal is to bring awareness to the students of Skyline,” said Rayden Alhubaishy, the director of the event. “We want the students to see the Middle East.”
Although the event was a Middle Eastern event, there were students from all different backgrounds and cultures in attendance enjoying the festivities. There were guest speakers from the United Nations club who met delegates from Iran and Afghanistan.
Some of the belly dancers that performed at this event were actually Skyline College professors. Three Skyline College students even went to the United Nations in New York in hopes of “learning about discrimination in this time of war.”
“We want to help raise the quality of life for some of these people,” Alhubaishy said. “1,000 people die from starvation each hour, and $1.3 trillion is spent on weapons.”
Leo Rosales, who was at the event and went to the United Nations, is hoping to “bring back the United Nations experience to Skyline.”
“This is hands-on education,” Rosales said. “We have an opportunity to walk in the presence of greatness, and being at the UN is being at the heart and soul of the world.”