Baldwin Middle School Multicultural Festival unites community with food, music, and culture

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Baldwin Middle School was transformed into a vibrant cultural showcase on March 7 as students, families, and faculty gathered for the school’s annual Multicultural Festival. The event, co-chaired by Subrina Singh, featured lively performances, colorful decorations, and a global feast provided by local businesses. 

Singh, an alum of the school district and current Baldwin Middle School PTA member, reflected on the “full-circle” moment for her as she coordinated the event.

“It’s really a heartfelt feeling for me because it’s always special when life comes full circle and something you enjoyed in your younger years,” Singh said. “When you’re able to now give back to the community and support the teachers, the school and the staff.

Attendees were treated to a dynamic celebration of music, dance, and artistic expression, with performances ranging from traditional cultural dances to modern beats, each representing the diverse backgrounds of Baldwin’s student body

The itinerary of the festival featured a flag-coloring station, henna tattoos, and an international food tasting, where guests sampled dishes from around the world.

Local restaurants, including Royal Roti Shop, Panda House, Viva Tulum, Palm Island, Toyo Sushi, Pops & Poosh, Delicious Moments, Novi, Raagini, and Basil Leaf Grill, generously donated an array of cuisines, giving attendees a delicious glimpse into different culinary traditions. 

“That is what is special about Baldwin,” Singh said. “Local businesses, whether they are in Baldwin or not, they recognize their place within the community and they take role as community members very seriously.

“It’s beautiful to see all these restaurants being happy to donate something off their menu and support the students and the school,” she added.

The event, which has been held for decades at the middle school, highlights the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures as students transition into their teen years, high school, and beyond.

“For 17 years as an administrator at BMS, I have witnessed our Multicultural Festival flourish, reflecting the heart of our school—unity in diversity,” Erica Taylor, Baldwin Middle School principal wrote in an email. “At Baldwin Middle School, we don’t just acknowledge our differences; we celebrate them, fostering an inclusive environment where every culture is valued and every student belongs.”

“It’s important to support the diversity in Baldwin and welcome it,” Singh said. “It always starts with the youth and with children because I believe that awareness and exposure leads to knowledge. When you have knowledge, you don’t have ignorance and without ignorance, you don’t have things like bullying.”