Diversity Programming
The Office of Intercultural Initiatives recognizes and supports our affinity groups through their annual events. Programming, including cultural events, educational trainings, and social gatherings are sponsored and hosted by OMI and Unity House throughout the year. We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with departments and offices as well.
Fall Semester
Welcome Back Meet & Greet
Start the school year by meeting all the affinity organizations at Merrimack College. Learn more about each organization and what they have to offer. Most importantly, you’ll have a chance to meet new people and build relationships.
Latinx Heritage Month
During the month duration starting September 15 through October 15, we celebrate the cultures, contributions and resilience of Latinx, Hispanic and Latino-identified communities around the world.
Taste the World
Taste the World celebrates and brings awareness of different cultures through food and trivia. Each month brings a new opportunity to learn more about what the world has to offer to the community.
UniTea Talks
UniTea Talks tackle controversial topics that impact the community. Through conversation, UniTea talks aim to educate and provide awareness to students seeking to learn more about the monthly topics.
Day of the Dead
The Day of the Dead or better known as Dia de Los Muertos is a holiday that originated in Mexico but is celebrated all over Latin America. It is a two-day celebration that reunites the living and the dead. Families honor their dead during this time.
Diwali
Diwali, Divali, Dipawali, or Deepavali is a festival of light that is celebrated within many faith traditions including Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, and certain sects of Buddhism. It’s celebrated annually in October or November – usually over a five-day period – and is considered to be the most important holiday by many within these faith traditions.
Hot Cocoa Hot Topics
Hot Cocoa Hot Topics is an open dialogue to discuss current events or ongoing issues related to gender inequality.
National Coming Out Day
National Coming Out Day is an annual celebration of the bravery and courage of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Spring Semester
Black History Month
During the month of February, we celebrate and recognize the achievements of the African and Black Diaspora community in the US. Through educational conversation, social engagement, and giving back, Black History Month provides an opportunity to learn and come together.
Flags of Love
Flags of Love is a Valentine’s Day campaign designed to emphasize and showcase all forms of love.
Dominican Independence Day Celebration
On February 27, we come together to celebrate and recognize the rich culture of the Dominican Republic through food, dance and games.
Lunar New Year Celebration
Lunar New Year is a celebrated festival holiday in Chinese, Korean, Tibetan, Vietnamese, and many additional Asian countries, which celebrates the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunar calendar.
Holi
Holi is a popular ancient Hindu festival that is also known as the “festival of spring”, the “festival of colors”, or the “festival of love”. It marks the end of Winter and welcomes Spring, so it is usually celebrated in March. People play with different colors and spend time with loved ones to celebrate the victory of good over evil as well as new beginnings!