Culture and Community: The 2nd Annual APID Family Dinner at Bullis

The Bullis community came together for an evening that celebrated the rich tapestry of Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi (APID) cultures. The 2nd Annual APID Family Dinner, which coincided with APID Heritage Month, saw nearly 100 faculty, students, and families gather in a vibrant celebration of history and culture. Sponsored by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) department at Bullis, the event created a space for engaging conversations, community time, a shared dinner, and a program that featured a faculty speaker and a student panel, all in the name of fostering a deeper sense of unity and understanding.

Food, a central pillar of APID culture, played a significant role in the evening. The menu was a testament to the culinary traditions that span the vast APID regions, with authentic dishes provided by local APID restaurants. The flavors of India, Japan, China, Korea, Mongolia, and Thailand were all on offer, allowing attendees to embrace the importance of food in preserving history and forming connections across borders and oceans.

Xueying Clarke, the Middle & Upper School Chinese language teacher, shared stories of her family in China and her journey to the United States. She spoke about her husband, their two children, and the life they have built in Virginia. Mrs. Clarke expressed her gratitude for the school's supportive community and its commitment to diversity among the student body.

The student panel, featuring Evan B. '24, Noor K. '24, Harry W. '24, and Apple F. '26 provided insights into how their APID identities have shaped their lives, both socially and academically. They discussed their pride in their heritage and how much they appreciate Bullis for creating affinity spaces that allow students to connect, share experiences, and celebrate their backgrounds. 

It was a special evening filled with laughter, great food, and new connections. Following the success of the APID Family Dinner, the Bullis community looks forward to more events that celebrate its diverse cultural tapestry. The Upper School has already held an APID Heritage Month Assembly, while the Lower and Middle Schools are scheduled to have theirs on May 28. In collaboration with Meriwether-Godsey, the Dining Hall will continue to offer weekly themed meals featuring APID cuisines throughout the month of May.

For those interested in contributing to the planning of upcoming APID events or learning more about the APID affinity space at Bullis, faculty co-facilitators Alice Shih-Kahn and Everett Lum welcome your involvement. Their dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels seen and valued is a testament to the spirit of community that Bullis strives to embody.