Spooky Fun at United International College and United Language Institute: Celebrating Halloween 2024
Blog Post Written by Dr. Marcela Moyano
Spooky Fun at United International College and United Language Institute: Celebrating Halloween 2024
On October 31, 2024, United International College (UIC) and United Language Institute (ULI) were transformed into a festive, Halloween wonderland. For many domestic and international students, this was not just another evening on the calendar. It was a chance to embrace American traditions, share Halloween excitement, and make lasting memories with friends and classmates. For many international students, this was their first-ever Halloween celebration, and it was an experience they will never forget!
A Celebration of Culture and Tradition
Halloween is one of the most beloved holidays in the United States, and UIC and ULI joined in the fun with their annual celebration that brings together students from around the world. Whether you were carving pumpkins, dressing in creative costumes, or wrapping friends up as mummies, the celebration is always filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a touch of spooky spirit.
The festivities kicked off with a Pumpkin Carving Contest. Pumpkins were handed out, and students eagerly got to work, wielding carving tools to turn the pumpkins into works of art—some spooky, some funny, and others just plain quirky. For many international students, this was their first time carving a pumpkin, an iconic Halloween activity that is often unfamiliar in their home countries. The air was filled with laughter, as students shared tips and marveled at each other’s designs.
Students poured their creativity into the competition, and the result was a dazzling array of jack-o'-lanterns, each reflecting a unique twist on Halloween. Some carved traditional creepy faces, while others went for more imaginative or cultural interpretations. The winner was the sophomore Business Administration tennis student-athlete, Savano Hanna, a native of The Bahamas and first time carving a pumpkin. Every student who participated walked away with a sense of accomplishment and a newfound appreciation for this fun and quirky American tradition.
Costumes, Contest, and Creative Fun
Of course, no Halloween celebration is complete without costumes! The UIC and ULI Halloween event encouraged everyone to come dressed in their best (or most amusing) attire. Students embraced the spirit of the day, showing off everything from spooky Jokers and ghosts.
Mummy Madness: Toilet Paper Wrap Race
Students also enjoyed the Toilet Paper Mummy Wrap Race. Students teamed up to wrap each other up in toilet paper as quickly as possible, creating the most convincing mummies. Laughter echoed through the UIC Campus garden as teams frantically raced against the clock, struggling to keep their mummies intact. It was a hilarious sight to see students—some of them from halfway around the world—wrapped up in layers of toilet paper, with only their eyes peeking out from beneath the gauzy layers. The fun and excitement of the competition helped build camaraderie among students, whether they were from the United States or abroad.
Looking Forward to Next Year’s Haunting Celebration
The Halloween Annual Celebration is an opportunity for international and domestic students alike to step outside of their comfort zones, try something new, and experience a slice of American culture joyfully and engagingly. Many students expressed how much they enjoyed seeing familiar traditions from a different perspective and how much they appreciated the chance to connect with others from all over the world.
As the students returned to their studies, they took with them not just new skills in carving pumpkins or wrapping mummies, but a deeper connection to each other and to the spirit of Halloween. Who knows what next year’s celebration will bring? One thing’s for sure—if Halloween 2024 was any indication, it will be bigger, spookier, and even more fun!
Happy Halloween from United International College and United Language Institute!
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
Damon Phillips in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Dania Beach, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students. We are pleased to present the work of our student authors. Our blog is open to an array of genres including fiction, essays, and creative writing pieces. Our blog is an open space for our UIC students to IMAGINE, CREATE, and INSPIRE as they share their creative expressions. The mission of Collective Thoughts is to provide a platform to showcase the unique voice of the developing and emerging writer and to foster the love of writing.
Meet Damon Phillips, a UIC Junior and Class of 2028 scholarship athlete whose journey to college basketball was anything but typical. Starting with a dream but no formal training, Phillips faced setbacks, including being cut from his high school team. Rather than give up, he committed to rigorous training, honing his skills and mental toughness through countless early mornings and late nights. His resilience and dedication paid off, leading to a college scholarship and a spot on UIC’s team. Phillips’ story is a powerful testament to perseverance, and we’re thrilled to have him bring that spirit to UIC!
My Journey to Earning a College Basketball Scholarship by Damon Phillips
My journey to earning a college basketball scholarship is one marked by adversity, perseverance, and a deep-seated commitment to overcoming the odds. As I reflect on this pivotal chapter of my life, the contrast between my initial despair and the subsequent triumph is both vivid and inspiring. This is the story of how a high school basketball dream nearly crumbled, only to be rebuilt through relentless effort and determination.
At the outset, my relationship with basketball was marked by enthusiasm but little experience. Growing up, I admired the sport from afar, watching games and practicing shots in my driveway. Yet, as high school loomed, my passion remained just that- an unfulfilled dream. I had never played organized basketball, and my high school offered no opportunities to join a team. By the time I was a senior, my window seemed to be closing, and my aspirations felt increasingly out of reach.
The turning point came abruptly. In my senior year, I finally made the high school team, only to face a series of challenges that tested my resolve. The excitement of being a part of the team quickly turned into frustration as I struggled to keep up with my more experienced teammates. My lack of formal training and game experience became glaringly obvious. The breaking point arrived when, after a series of disappointing performances, I was cut from the team.
However, in the wake of this setback, something remarkable happened. I refused to let this rejection define me. Instead, it ignited a fierce determination within me to prove not just to others but to myself that I could overcome this obstacle. I decided to take my future into my own hands. I sought out a personal trainer- a decision that would reshape my life. My trainer, a seasoned coach with a deep understanding of the game, took me under his wing. The sessions were grueling. Mornings began before dawn, and evenings were spent in the gym long after the sun had set. I dedicated myself to mastering the fundamentals, honing my skills, and building the physical and mental toughness necessary to compete at a higher level. The early mornings were cold, the workouts were intense, and the progress was slow. Yet, with each day, my abilities improved, and so did my confidence.
As the months passed, the fruits of my labor began to manifest. My game improved significantly; I became more agile, more strategic, and more resilient. The skills I developed were not just physical but also mental, learning to handle pressure, stay focused, and remain determined despite setbacks. The sacrifices I made-giving up weekends, social events, and even some of my senior year experiences started to feel worth it.
When the time came to apply for college scholarships, I was ready. I presented not only my improved skills but also the story of my perseverance. It was no longer just about a scholarship; it was about demonstrating that I had the resilience to overcome failure and adversity. That story resonated with the coaches and scholarship committees, and my efforts were rewarded. I was offered a basketball scholarship that allowed me to attend college and continue pursuing, my passion.
Looking back, the journey from being cut from the team to earning a scholarship is a testament to the power of resilience and hard work. It was a period marked by intense personal growth and the realization that adversity while challenging, can be a powerful catalyst for change. This experience taught me that setbacks are not the end but rather an opportunity to rise, adapt, and succeed. In conclusion, the path from a high school player with little experience to a college scholarship recipient was neither straightforward nor easy. It was a journey filled with late nights, early mornings, and relentless effort. Yet, it was through this adversity that I discovered my true strength and capacity for growth. This chapter of my life remains a profound reminder that with determination and hard work, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.
Embracing Gratitude: Understanding Thanksgiving and Its Meaning at UIC
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Dania Beach, FL - As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a wonderful opportunity for us, especially in a diverse community filled with international students, to learn about and embrace one of the most cherished American traditions. Thanksgiving goes beyond turkey dinners and football games; it’s a celebration of gratitude, togetherness, and reflection. At UIC, where we believe in holistic education, participating in Thanksgiving traditions can be a meaningful way to connect with these values.
The Roots of Thanksgiving: A Journey of Unity and Gratitude
Thanksgiving traces its origins back to the early 17th century, when Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people gathered in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to share a meal in celebration of a successful harvest. This momentous event was not only about food but also about unity and collaboration. The Pilgrims, having endured a difficult winter, were aided by the Wampanoag, who taught them essential agricultural practices that helped ensure their survival. The gathering symbolized mutual respect, gratitude, and a collective hope for a better future.
Over the years, Thanksgiving transformed into a national holiday, commemorated by families and communities across the United States. It came to symbolize unity, resilience, and an appreciation for life's blessings—whether small moments of kindness, shared meals, or the company of loved ones. Today, Thanksgiving continues to be a day where people pause to reflect, express gratitude, and connect with family and friends, honoring a tradition rooted in compassion and collaboration.
At UIC, we aim to celebrate Thanksgiving as a meaningful opportunity to foster gratitude and embrace the diverse backgrounds within our community, uniting us in a spirit of togetherness and appreciation.
Thanksgiving and Holistic Education: Lessons in Gratitude
At UIC, we’re encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally—a concept known as holistic education. Embracing Thanksgiving offers a unique chance to reflect on gratitude and appreciate the support systems and experiences that shape us. Whether through a simple meal with friends, a moment of quiet reflection, or even volunteering, there are many ways to celebrate this season and connect with its underlying messages of compassion and generosity.
Share Your Gratitude with #ThanksTogetherUIC
Thanksgiving is a time to connect, reflect, and express gratitude! This year, we want to hear from YOU. What are you thankful for? Whether it’s a friend who’s been by your side, an achievement that made you proud, or a moment of kindness that lifted your spirits, share it with us!
Post a message, photo, or video sharing what you’re grateful for, and use #ThanksTogetherUIC to join our gratitude circle. We’ll be featuring some of the most inspiring posts in our December newsletter, so let your story shine!
Let’s fill our feeds with appreciation, unity, and inspiration, showing just how much we have to be thankful for together.
Celebrate with Us at the UIC Thanksgiving Party!
Join us on Thursday, November 21st, for a special Thanksgiving celebration at the college! The event will begin with a screening of the documentary United in Diversity: Voices of UIC International Students at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Q&A session and a Thanksgiving celebration. This is a great opportunity to come together, share in the spirit of gratitude, and learn about diverse experiences within our UIC community. We hope to see you there! Let’s make this Thanksgiving a memorable one together!
Thanksgiving is more than a single day; it’s a reminder to carry gratitude throughout the year. We hope you’ll join us in embracing this tradition, making it a time to reflect, connect, and appreciate the people and experiences that make life meaningful. Happy Thanksgiving to our entire UIC community!
Remember to Post a message, photo, or video sharing what you’re grateful for, and use #ThanksTogetherUIC to join our gratitude circle
Collective Thoughts UIC Students Fall 2024
Blog Post Written by Dr. Debbie Mendez
Dania Beach, FL-
Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students. We are pleased to present the work of our student authors. Our blog is open to an array of genres including fiction, essays, and creative writing pieces. Our blog is an open space for our UIC students to IMAGINE, CREATE, and INSPIRE as they share their creative expressions. The mission of Creative Thoughts is to provide a platform to showcase the unique voice of the developing and emerging writer and to foster the love of writing.
During the Fall semester, our students took time to reflect on our American values and how these values have helped to shape our nation and set the stage for our democratic experiment. Students took time to deliberate on the first three words of the United States Constitution, “We the People”… In addition, students were asked to contemplate and share a pivotal time in their lives and how it brought them to where they are today.
We are thankful to our wonderful students for sharing with us!
Parnya Nadeem -Class of 2028
Nicolas Guzman Camacho – Class of 2028
Damon Phillips – Class of 2028
Carly Jure- Class of 2027
Carolina Posse Valencia – Class of 2027
Learning and its Creative Process
Written by Prof. Dr. Marcela Moyano
Miramar, FL –
The President’s Graduation Reception took place on Friday, June 28th at 10:00 a.m. at the J. Alberto Moyano Auditorium.
The event started with the pitching of the Business Expo students enrolled in Prof. Jack Rose who meticulously had put together their business ventures displays at the Summer Business Expo 2024. Watch a video of each of the student entrepreneurs in Prof. Rose’s blog post on the Business Expo.
Followed by the student business pitching, the Wired: Satisfying Narratives Through Shapes, Colors, and Textures art gallery was officially opened and artists, Andres Zorrilla, Fernando Zicarelli, and Charly Silva were introduced. Art dealer and manager German Chavez from Colour Senses Project was also introduced and Dr. Marcela Moyano, Director of Communications of United International College thanked him and the artists for their support in enhancing the arts at UIC.
Then, Prof. Rose commemorated President Lydia Bautista Möller and mentioned that United International College is about leadership that starts with UIC’s president. He said that leadership channels in the kind of team work that can be witnessed in events such as the President’s Graduation Reception.
Right after Prof. Rose’s words, Dr. Marcela Moyano introduced the Documentary course that Communications and Mass Media students take as part of their last requirement of the program and presented senior students, Valerie Seguin, film Director, and Renata Diniz, film Assistant Director.
During the course of six weeks, the students learned about the theory and historical background of the art of documentary production and produced United in Diversity: Voices of International UIC Students. The film features five students native to Colombia, Venezuela, Haiti, Romania, and Russia. The purpose of the documentary is to portray the journey of international students from the moment they decide to embark on the journey of studying in the United States and explore all the challenges and opportunities they encounter along the way.
The students opened up during interviews with Valerie Seguin and shared their most intimate emotions of their journey. The documentary is an uplifting piece of work that demonstrates to other international students of how their experience is alike and inspires students around the world to embark in such daring journeys that certainly elevates their life.
Angelica Moyano, Provost of United International College is featured in the film and shares the history of UIC throughout its 24 years of having been established in South Florida and its passion for serving international students.
The running time of the documentary is 32:02 minutes. After the screening, the audience asked questions to the filmmakers and Ana Maria Socha who was one of the students featured in the film. Everyone in the auditorium was moved and congratulated the filmmaker for having accomplished such a film in a short frame of time. They also thanked Ana Maria Socha and the other students for sharing their personal experiences in the film.
The reception concluded and everyone was looking forward to celebration the XXII Commencement Ceremony on the very next day. A few of the students who participated in this event were graduating.
- Learn more about Associate, Bachelor, or Master Degree programs. Learn more about UIC Programs,
- How to apply to UIC
- How to enroll as an International Student
- and how to become a student athlete at UIC
Future Entrepreneurs Showcase their Business Ventures
Written by Prof. Jack Rose
Miramar, FL – The Summer 2024 term, at United International College, ended with the largest Business Expo in the college’s history, when 22 budding entrepreneurs showcased their businesses to visitors attending the Expo.
Under the direction of Professor Jack J. Rose, students learned not only the challenges of opening up a new business, but the importance of growing their business to achieve a higher level of success. Students had to submit their product/service for approval and identify their primary and secondary target markets. Ongoing marketing research was a key ingredient that Professor Rose emphasized, since each location has different clientele. As a former buyer, he stressed the importance of a merchandise plan, and knowing everything about their customers. Today, localization marketing is the key to all businesses having more than one location.
From an economic standpoint, most cities want businesses to come to their community to boost the economy – providing employment and becoming involved community members. Globally, student must know the laws of each city/country, and the importance of knowing what marketing techniques are best to reach the target customer.
Chikamo Farms is the brainchild of Kumawuese Chiattitor. The farm specializes in producing organic vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, pepper, carrots, different bean varieties, and celery.
At the Expo, Kuma spoke with Thai Tran, the founder of Chao, featuring traditional Vietnamese Cuisine. Since Thai’s business is built on quality ingredients, a “marriage” was made between the two entrepreneurs.
Diana Carolina Enciso’s Exquisite Clean is a high-end luxury cleaning service and exclusive provider of cleaning and maintenance solutions for luxury home and properties located in the affluent neighborhoods of South Florida.
Rank Marathon Digital Solutions is the service provider created by Sadat Fahim. His company offers a comprehensive range of marketing services, including, but not limited to, Website Audit, Email Marketing, Influencer Marketing, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media Marketing, On-Page SEO, Of-Page SEO, Google Ads, and META ads. Rank Marathon’s goal is to provide convenient and effective marketing solutions for start-ups and established companies.
Nicholas Lamont Gravely’s 2047 Restaurant is the fulfillment of his dream to open a restaurant featuring American and Soul food, and become an important member of the community by being open 24 hour — serving breakfast, lunch and dinner 24/7. Every item arrives from the kitchen freshly made with the finest ingredients and love. Most important is the customer service experience to keep his customers returning to his business.
SnackSmart’s motto is “Fuel Your Day the Smart Way” and founder Jahed Hosson’s company provides vending machines to any company or organization that wants to promote healthy choices to their employees. These machines offer a wide-range of products, including organic snacks, gluten-free options, protein bars, fresh fruits, and natural beverages.
Sam’s Sweet Bakery attracted many attendees since they were invited to sample some of Samantha Igor’s delectable creations. Her slogan, “Find Happiness in Every Bite” came to fruition as each visitor sampled her baked goods. Within five years, Sam intends to build a great marketing brand and be an active member of the community.
Tanjim Ul Kahn’s Green Buds Waste company specializes in repurposing cigarette butts into a range of eco-friendly products including keyrings, mosquito repellants, pillows, dolls and more. By recycling these discarded butts, the company not only reduces environmental pollution, but also creates unique and sustainable items that serve various purposes.
Zen Rolls is looking to be the premiere establishment for sushi rolls. The brainchild of Maria Paula Malaver, her goal is to become the go-to place for real hand rolls, where besides the traditional rolls, customers will have the opportunity to sample different rolls, all made of the finest quality ingredients.
Marrying his love of baseball and his dream of owning a restaurant, Anthony Monroy, plans to open All Star Kitchens, using a baseball theme motif throughout the venue. His target market are families, students, and tourists who enjoy experiencing different cuisines in a friendly, inviting atmosphere. His future growth of his company includes becoming a source for family events, company picnic, and community events as the only source for successful events in the area.
Aqua Flow Essentials is a business that Benjamin Morganti is extremely excited about since his passion for water sports lit the lightbulb of excitement for his business as an entrepreneur. His tagline, “Flowing Towards Efficiency – Unlocking the Power of Fluid Dynamics for a Sustainable Future” aptly states the intention for his business. Benjamin sees his business location on the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk offering top-quality paddle boards, water sports clothing, and extreme sports gear. His future goal is to grow his business within other beachfront locations throughout Florida and beyond.
Carolina Posse’s Inner Journey Expeditions is a travel agency that seeks to sell tours for women to erotic destinations or with a spiritual vibe, not only to get to know the destination, but to make a healing workshop on different topics such as female lineage, healing of the uterus, healing of father and mother, etc. Her target market is the group of Latin women (because tours will be in Spanish), over 35 years of age, and who are in search for their lkigai (purpose of life).
David Rhead’s Hills and Valleys clothing company reflects his religious beliefs and looks forward to spreading the word throughout the USA and Canada by helping others represent their faith. His target market are Christians, ages 20-35, and is convinced his slogan, “Put God First” will attract more people to love and believe in their faith.
Mikael Silva’s MSS Soccer Club, fulfills the dreams of this Brazilian Soccer player who wants to develop talents for this sport. His ambitious goals are to start with five youngsters that he will coach, and grow MSS Soccer Club in five years to ten coaches, each having a group of 50 kids. With his drive, hard work, and motivation, Mikael will succeed in developing players for not only Brazil, but the world.
Artem Sorokin has created JumpBall Agency to assist athletes to locate schools in the USA and Europe where they can receive a great education and participate in the college of university’s basketball program. A member of the United International College’s basketball team, Artem has the experience in knowledge in navigating this goal for so many young people.
Elite Skills FL was created by Elias Vera and his tagline, “Create Your Own Path,” mirrors his goal for training young athletes interested in basketball, with an emphasis on skills development, fitness training, and competitiveness drills. Within five years, Elias sees Elite Skills FL becoming the only destination for basketball training in the region, expanding their services to include summer camps, specialized coaching programs, and partnerships with school and youth leagues.
- Learn more about Associate, Bachelor, or Master Degree programs. Learn more about UIC Programs,
- How to apply to UIC
- How to enroll as an International Student
- and how to become a student athlete at UIC
It Takes a Village and Gratitude to Get to Commencement Day: UIC Celebrates its XXII Commencement Ceremony
Written by Dr. Marcela Moyano
Miramar, Florida – United International College held its 22nd Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, June 29th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at the Savor Cinema Fort Lauderdale, 503 SE 6th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 awarding Master, Bachelor, and Associate degrees to 34 students representing the USA, Pakistan, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Canada, Bangladesh, China, Romania, France, Haiti, Vietnam, Colombia, Brazil, and Honduras.
The ceremony was opened with the interpretation of the National Anthem of the United States, the Star Spangled Banner by Alin Turculescu, a former Romanian folklore music singer and Business Administration Bachelor Degree recipient.
UIC’s co-founder and President, Lydia Bautista Moller, delivered her speech and started by congratulating the Class of 2024. She accoladed the UIC Eagle Rays and mentioned her own love for the sport of Basketball. She also urged the students to always look for what makes them happy as the Holistic Model of Education of UIC teaches.
Jean Souffrant, the Executive Director at Pierre Toussaint Leadership and Learning Center, and Director of Notre Dame D’Haiti Catholic Church served as the Commencement Speaker. He works alongside Father Reginald Jean-Mary who has been an influential agent of change in the Haitian diaspora in the United States, always bringing together Haitian migrants and prominent leaders , and empowering them with a message of hope from a powerful spiritual faith.
Souffrant started his speech singing a religious song, delivered an empowering speech motivating students to always continue reaching their dreams, and concluded his speech with a teaching of Apostle Paul by stating that “in everything that you do, always maintain an attitude of gratitude…never forget where you came from.”
Luis Hernandez was the Magna Cum Laude Business Administration Undergraduate Commencement Speaker. Hernandez is an Eagle Ray Baseball student athlete who shared in his speech the nuances of his daily work being a student athlete to reach the moment of his commencement ceremony from his associate in Business Administration. (a dream com true)
Hernandez mentioned that he had arrived from Venezuela as an international student to play baseball. He told the graduating class of 2024 that anyone in the world would love the chance to be in their place as graduates from UIC in the United States. He also recognized that students’ workload and responsibilities might seem stressful and over achievable and added: “we will always find a way to accomplish everything we desire and succeed.”
You can learn about Luis’ journey as an Eagle Ray Baseball student athlete in a blog post that Prof. Jack Rose wrote about him after interviewing him. Learn about Luis
Angelica Moyano, the Provost of UIC, awarded the diplomas to students. The President guided the Alumni Oath, and the Graduating Class recognized Faculty and family members for their support throughout the years. The ceremony concluded with a sense of accomplishment and immense joy.
Ximena Caraballo, an alumna from the Communications and Mass Media program, volunteered to conduct the media coverage and live stream of the ceremony. A fine team of volunteers joined to facilitate the Commencement Ceremony including UIC students, staff, and members of the community, including Detective Yesenia Diaz, from the Miramar Police Department of the City of Miramar.
UIC Eagle Rays have a home away from home and they are always welcome back to study another degree or to share their life stories with their UIC family.
- Learn more about Associate, Bachelor, or Master Degree programs. Learn more about UIC Programs,
- How to apply to UIC
- How to enroll as an International Student
- and how to become a student athlete at UIC
Diana Carolina Enciso Santana in UIC Collective Thoughts
Blog Post Written by Diana Carolina Enciso Santana Class of 2027
Miramar, FL- Collective Thoughts is a blog published once a semester by our UIC students, and features fiction, creative writing, and creative nonfiction pieces of work submitted by our undergraduate students.
Meet Diana Carolina, in her essay on American values, she highlights four key pillars: freedom, equality, individualism, and patriotism, which collectively define the nation’s ethos and identity, rooted in the principles of the Founding Fathers and shaping societal norms and aspirations.
American Values by Diana Carolina Enciso Santana
FREEDOM
One of the foundational values in American society is freedom. Rooted in the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, the concept of freedom has been a guiding principle for the nation. Americans value the freedom to express their opinions, practice their chosen religion, and pursue their individual aspirations. This commitment to personal and political freedom is evident in the emphasis on civil liberties and the democratic system. Americans believe that freedom fosters innovation, creativity, and a diverse society. It is considered a fundamental right that shapes the national identity and influences policy decisions, reflecting the enduring influence of the Founding Fathers’ commitment to liberty.
EQUALITY
Equality is another core value that has evolved over time in American society. While the nation’s history includes periods of inequality, the pursuit of equal rights has been a driving force. The belief in equal opportunities and treatment for all is deeply ingrained in the American ethos. From the Civil Rights Movement to ongoing discussions about gender and LGBTQ+ rights, the commitment to equality reflects a shared desire for a just and inclusive society. The Founding Fathers’ principles of equality before the law and the pursuit of happiness continue to resonate, inspiring ongoing efforts to address social injustices and disparities.
INDIVIDUALISM
Individualism is a distinctive American value that emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy and self-reliance. The idea that individuals can shape their destinies through hard work and determination is deeply ingrained in American culture. This value is reflected in the celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and the belief in the “American Dream.” While communal bonds and societal cooperation are acknowledged, individualism remains a defining trait. The Founding Fathers’ emphasis on individual rights and liberties has contributed to a culture that values personal responsibility and the pursuit of one’s unique goals and aspirations.
PATRIOTISM
Patriotism is a pervasive value in American society, reflecting a deep love and loyalty to the nation. Rooted in the sacrifices of the Revolutionary War, this value is evident in displays of national pride, such as the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of the national anthem. Patriotism is not just about love for the land but also a commitment to the principles enshrined in the Constitution. The Founding Fathers’ dedication to creating a nation where citizens actively participate in shaping its destiny has contributed to the enduring sense of patriotism. This value is seen as a unifying force that transcends differences and fosters a shared identity among Americans.
Celebrating Art and Activism: The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World Premiere
Blog Post Written by Valerie Seguin
Art has always been a vehicle for social change, a medium through which voices are amplified, narratives are reshaped, and communities are united. On March 21st, 2024, the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of the African Diaspora (MoCAAD) welcomed artists, scholars, and activists to the premiere of The Day I heard the Sounds of the World: Art Connecting Communities – Overtown and Coral Gables (2024), a documentary by Michael Anderson, Five-X Regional Emmy-Award Winning Filmmaker/Storyteller, and featuring the groundbreaking work of Marielle Plaisir.
This event marked a significant milestone in the museum’s journey to discover, commission, and preserve the work of the most advanced contemporary artists of the Global African Diaspora and Africa itself.
At the heart of this premiere was the unveiling of Marielle Plaisir’s latest masterpiece, “The Day I heard the Sounds of the World: Art Connecting Communities – Overtown and Coral Gables.” Plaisir, a multimedia artist and activist, has long been dedicated to exploring the themes of domination, supremacy, and social justice. Her work transcends traditional boundaries, encompassing painting, sculpture, photography, installation, film, and performance. Through her art, she delves into the complexities of colonialism, race, class, and the construction of identity.
Plaisir’s artistic practice is deeply rooted in research and documentation, drawing from documentary history, literature, and sound sources to craft visually striking and emotionally resonant pieces. Her ability to fluidly navigate various mediums allows her to create powerful visual experiences that challenge harmful narratives and offer glimpses of hope for a more equitable future. Marielle Plaisir’s solo exhibition “Strange Fruits” is currently on view at the Coral Gables Art Museum. Her new work “The Day I Heard the Sounds of the World” will join the “Strange Fruits” exhibition and will be on view from April 5-28, 2024.
The premiere of Plaisir’s exhibition was accompanied by a fireside chat featuring esteemed guests Dr. Dorothy J. Fields and Marilyn Holifield. Dr. Fields, a luminary in the preservation of African-American heritage, shared insights into her lifelong mission to raise awareness of South Florida’s black history. Her tireless efforts, including the establishment of Miami’s Black Archives and the designation of historic sites, have paved the way for a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Similarly, Marilyn Holifield, a trailblazer in the legal profession and arts advocate, brought her unique perspective to the conversation. As the first black woman partner of a major law firm in Florida, Holifield’s journey exemplifies resilience and commitment to breaking barriers. Her passion for the arts, nurtured since childhood, underscores the importance of cultural expression in shaping identity and fostering social change.
To enhance the vibrancy of the event, independent recording artist Alexander Star graced the audience with a captivating performance. With a knack for merging entertainment with social impact, Star added an extra layer of depth to the premiere, echoing the themes of activism and empowerment woven throughout Plaisir’s work.
Beyond the physical exhibition, attendees were treated to a mix-and-mingle virtual reality art experience, marking a significant milestone for MoCAAD. The launch of this virtual reality and augmented reality museum experience signifies a bold step towards expanding access to art and culture on a global scale. Soon, audiences around the world will have the opportunity to engage with multilingual art, spoken word, and music experiences, further amplifying the museum’s mission of inclusivity and accessibility.
Communication students from United International College (UIC) were particularly drawn to attend this event due to the inherent interdisciplinary nature of their field of study. Communication encompasses various disciplines, including media studies, cultural studies, and public relations, all of which intersect with the themes explored in Marielle Plaisir’s artwork and the discussions at the premiere. By immersing themselves in this cross-disciplinary environment, communication students were able to broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding of how communication functions within the context of contemporary art and activism. Moreover, attending events like the MoCAAD premiere allows communication students to cultivate their critical thinking skills, enhance their visual literacy, and gain valuable insights into the role of communication in shaping cultural narratives and fostering social change. As future communicators, their participation in such events catalyzes their academic and professional growth, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to make meaningful contributions to society through their communication practice.
For faculty and students from art classes at United International College, this event also served as an inspiring reminder of the transformative power of art and activism. Through Plaisir’s evocative artwork, Dr. Fields’ dedication to preserving heritage, Holifield’s trailblazing leadership, and Star’s dynamic performance, attendees were invited to reflect on their roles as agents of change in their communities and beyond.
As we celebrate this momentous occasion, let us continue to champion artists, scholars, and activists who dare to challenge the status quo and envision a more just and equitable world through their creativity and passion.
Join us in exploring the intersection of art and activism at Miami MoCAAD, where every brushstroke tells a story, and every voice is heard.
