Rogers Park Middle School brought together students, families, educators, and community leaders on Thursday, November 6, for its annual Multicultural Family Night — an uplifting celebration of culture, language, and unity that remains one of the school’s most cherished traditions.

Organized by ESL teachers Emily Lopes and Nancy Ramos, the event transformed the school into a vibrant tapestry of global heritage. “Multicultural Night is one of our favorite traditions,” Ramos said. “It’s an evening where our school comes together to celebrate the many cultures, languages and traditions that make our school so special.”

Throughout the evening, students proudly showcased displays, artwork, cultural presentations, and traditional clothing representing countries across Latin America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond. The energy in the building reflected the pride students felt in sharing their identities with classmates, teachers, and neighbors.

One of the most popular features of the night was the Park 21 Club’s World Map activity, in which families placed pins marking their home countries. The map quickly filled with color — a striking visual reminder of the multicultural fabric that defines both the school and the city of Danbury.

Student Council members played a key role, serving as presenters and guides, welcoming families, and helping the program run smoothly. Families enjoyed hands-on activities, including painted wooden flags, traditional games, photo booths, and interactive cultural displays created by students.

The evening also featured dynamic performances that brought the crowd to its feet. The Mexican Folklore Dance Group and Ecuadorian Folklore dancers delivered standout showcases of tradition and rhythm that reflected the deep cultural pride present in the community.

A number of local organizations attended as partners, offering resources and information to families. These groups included the Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut, Danbury Public Library, the Center for Empowerment, the School-Based Health Center, PTO, Danbury Unites for Immigrants, the Center for Safer Communities, and the English Learner Program.

Food donations from local businesses — including Primos, Banana Brasil, Padaminas, Pancho’s Tacos, Deolinda Artisan Bakery, and Stanziato’s Wood Fire Pizza — added another layer of cultural richness, allowing families to share flavors from around the world.

Senator Julie Kushner and State Representative Farley Santos were also in attendance, greeting families and celebrating alongside them. Their presence underscored the importance of community engagement and support for the city’s diverse population.

Ramos explained that the event reflects more than just a night of celebration. “Our Multicultural Family Night was a wonderful celebration of the diversity and cultures that represent both the city of Danbury and Rogers Park Middle School,” she said. “Events like this give our students, especially ESL students, an opportunity to share their experiences, food, and music — and for others to learn about and appreciate their culture.”

As families lingered past the closing announcements, the warmth and connection in the room spoke to the event’s deeper purpose: building understanding, pride, and belonging for every student who calls Rogers Park home.