Cultural Celebrations
These celebrations serve to acknowledge the academic accomplishments of graduating students while recognizing the histories and contributions of various communities. These ceremonies provide an opportunity for graduates to honor their achievements alongside family, friends, and supporters in a setting that reflects shared experiences and traditions.
Participation in any Cultural Celebration is open to all graduating students, and all are welcome to attend.
Any student(s) or groups who are interested in creating, establishing, hosting, or participating in a new, or non-existing, Cultural Celebration, please email OMSA@vcu.edu for details and criteria for establishing a new Cultural Celebration.
Donning of the Kente Celebration
Donning of the Kente Celebration: Rooted in Ghanaian tradition, the Kente cloth symbolizes history, philosophy, and cultural values. This celebration allows graduates to honor their academic journey while embracing the cultural significance of Kente.
Lavender Celebration
Lavender Celebration: This celebration honors the achievements and lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ communities while celebrating their impact on the university community.
Latine Celebration
Latine Celebration: Evolving from the La Raza Graduation Ceremonies of the 1970s, this celebration commemorates academic success, resilience, and cultural pride.
Asian Pacific Islander South Asian American Celebration
Asian Pacific Islander South Asian American Celebration: This celebration recognizes the diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of APISAA communities while celebrating academic achievements. It is inspired by the activism and advocacy of the Asian American Movement.
Native, Tribal, & Indigenous Celebration
Native, Tribal, & Indigenous Celebration: This celebration honors the perseverance, academic success, and cultural resilience of Native, Tribal, and Indigenous communities, and their long-standing impact.
Accessibility & Disability Celebration
Accessibility & Disability Celebration: This celebration reflects the institution’s commitment to go further than the accommodation process and work to empower students to become self-advocates and develop skill sets that would help them thrive.