An African Dance and Drum demonstration was one of several performances during the event. Photos by Jessica McKay
On Thursday, July 31, Greenspring hosted the 4th Annual Diversity Expo at the Springfield retirement community. The event, spearheaded by the community’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee, provided for an eclectic cultural experience with international foods, clothing, food, music and dance. Well over 600 residents and staff visited the event throughout the day, which provided delight for all the senses.
Greenspring regularly celebrates its diverse staff and provides opportunities like the Diversity Expo to promote cultural appreciation and expression. At the Diversity Expo, staff members shared for display and wore traditional dress representing their heritage; clothing could be seen from Sierra Leone to Japan to Mexico. Additionally, the culinary team at Greenspring presented international foods including
Chicken Mole (Mexico), Thai Basil Chicken (Thailand), and Jollof Rice with Chicken (West African/Ghana), among many other items including teas from all over the world.
Greenspring welcomed performers for an African Drum and Dance Demonstration, an Attan Dance (Afghanistan), a Belly Dancing Demonstration, and a Bolivian Dance Demonstration. Outside vendors joined for the event including Ten Thousand Villages, Maria’s Collection, ECHO (Ecumenical Community Helping Others), MVLE, and Rita’s Henna. Resident clubs at Greenspring also turned out for the expo including the Spanish Conversation club, PFLAG, the Hieroglyphic’s Club, and many others.