Cultural and Ethnic Event Considerations

 

Cultural and ethnic events are often targetted to a specific group or groups based on traditions and customs of geographic origins, ethnic identity or ties, symbolism, or similar.

 

In many cases these types of events will have a focus on:

• drink, food, and cuisine
• music, dance, and other performances
• language, literature, history, and heritage
• clothing and attire

In all cases, event sponsors are seeking community participation, although one of the first goals should be do determine if it is for a broader community or a more narrow designation of individuals.

Whether a narrow designation or not, the following factors should be considered:

• Access for individuals with mobility issues including parking, navigating, and particpating
• Access for individuals with hearing or visual limitations
• Possible dietary restrictions such as peanut allergies, shellfish allergies, gluten (a proteint found in wheat, barley, and rye) intolerance, or lactose (sugar found in milk and dairy products) intolerance. Certain populations have a higher prevalences of each.

If it is not a narrow designation that is known to all in attendance, then the additional factors should be considered as well:

• Cultural or religious dietary restrictions such as both halal (Muslim) and kosher (Jewish) laws that prohibit the consumption of pork and require specific methods of animal slaughter (cutting the major blood vessels), or Hinduism where individuals abstain from consuming beef as they believe cows to be sacred.
• The cultural, religious, and symbolic meanings of colors in various societies around the world. For example, in many Eastern cultures, white is associated with death and mourning, so would not be an appropriate color to wear or decorate with for happy occasions.
• The cultural, religious, and symbolic meanings of certain numbers around the world. For example, in many East Asian cultures the number four is considered unlucky so should be avoided, particularly for certain types of gifts or arrangements.
• The methods of giving and taking money can also carry cultural significance. In some East Asian cultures, such as Japan and South Korea, it's customary to use both hands when giving or receiving money as a sign of respect. However, some other cultures avoid the use of their left hand for money transactions. Placing money on the table during a transaction can vary in acceptability depending on cultural norms and context. In some cultures, it may be considered appropriate or even preferred, while in others, it may be seen as rude or disrespectful. In many Western societies, it is common to hand over money directly from one person's hand to another's.