Marlboro Multi-Cultural Day Spans Globe; Japan Exchange Returns

MARLBORO, NJ — Marlboro Multi-Cultural Day once again brought together a wide array of performers to present guests with traditional dance and music - and foods - from many areas of the world.

The 14th annual event was held at Marlboro High School Sunday. Rita Verma was the organizer and Anupal Patil and the Marlboro Indian Foundation and others were supporting the event.

And another announcement was made at the event that the Marlboro-Nanto youth cultural exchange program with Japan will resume in 2024.

The importance of global appreciation of diverse cultures was the theme of the Sunday event.

Multi-Cultural Day reflected "the very diverse communities that are the strength of Marlboro," organizers said. "The focus is on higher education and unity and bringing everyone together with the help of diversity so that we can produce talent for America."

And talent abounded at the event Sunday. There were traditional dances from many cultures on the globe - from Irish step dancing to a Chinese Jasmine Flower dance to the Italian Tarantella, along with many other performances presented by all generations.

The famous "It's A Small World" once again lyrically presented the message of mutual respect for all cultures.

And to encourage that goal, the resumption of the Marlboro Youth Exchange Program was announced at the event, after a hiatus during the pandemic.

On Thursday, Dec. 7, there will be a meeting from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Marlboro Recreation Center, 1996 Recreation Way, to discuss the program.

Students can travel to Japan as part of the Marlboro Township Youth Exchange Program, the Recreation Department notice says.

"These programs have been successfully opening a door for Marlboro students to foster a sense of global understanding by experiencing a new culture," the township says. Both programs are seeking committee members and volunteers to join them at any time.

Registration is open to Marlboro students ages 13 to 18 years. In includes a stay in Japan for about a week, with Japanese students hosted in their Marlboro home for three to seven days. There is also an option to host and not travel to Japan.

Registration is also open for chaperones to travel with the group of Student Ambassadors representing Marlboro Township.

Consideration for students to travel to Japan includes:

• Written essay.
• Hosting of Nanto City students.
• Participation in fundraising activities and events.

For more information, contact Ilana Kats at 732-674-4989 or ilana_kats@yahoo.com.