Over 100 students and families from the Redlands Unified School District were welcomed at the annual Multicultural Fair at Cope Middle School on April 18.

This year’s theme “Stronger Together: Stories That Help Shape Us,” celebrated the cultures, traditions, and lived experiences that strengthen the Redlands Unified community. Through student performances, community resources, and inclusive support for families, the event reflected the district’s commitment to fostering belonging, connection, and appreciation for diversity.

The celebration began with a land acknowledgment delivered by Redlands East Valley High School senior Kya Anthony. Representing the district’s diversity, students from multiple school sites presented flags from countries around the world followed by the National Anthem performed by Mission Elementary first-grader Kobie Dixon. Victoria Elementary kindergartner Evelyn Solis and fourth-grader Abigail Solis led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by REVHS’s Black Student Union singing the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

“Honestly, our annual multicultural fair isn’t just an event, it’s where we can hear each other’s stories, experience each other’s cultures, and share each other’s identities. The multicultural fair makes the district feel less divided and more like a community where everyone belongs,” shared Naleiah Miller, REVHS BSU co-president.

Following the event’s opening, attendees enjoyed a variety of cultural performances, including REVHS’s Steppers with Attitude, Ballet Folklorico Cultural de San Bernardino, line dancing, and Polynesian dancing led by REVHS’s Polynesian Cultural Club and Tonumaipe’a Polynesian Dance Company. A significant performance led by Natasia-Hula, instructor of the Tonumaipe’a Polynesian Dance Company, was a traditional Polynesian dance which she described represented the love of a mother for her child.

Throughout the event, attendees also had access to free books, toys, and backpacks, as well as opportunity drawings for many giveaway baskets. In addition, the Redlands SEPTA provided a sensory dispensary for students, offering a safe, inclusive, and accessible friendly space.

“It is important for students and families to see their cultures, traditions, and stories represented at school events because it fosters a sense of belonging and validation. When people see themselves reflected in their environment, it reinforces pride in their identity and encourages confidence,” said NaChé Thompson, coordinator of Diversity and Equity. “It also provides opportunities for others to learn, ask questions, and appreciate perspectives different from their own, which helps build a more inclusive community climate.”