By Talula Enis, Jessica A. Dennehy
Unity in Diversity returned for its 31st annual performance this year, featuring a blend of fresh acts along with returning favorites. Advised by Mr. Huber and Mrs. Korn, Unity in Diversity is led by President Nay Mai and VP Grace Zheng, showcasing 16 participating countries that span five continents, involving nearly 70 students. Originally founded in 1994 by a student eager to share their culture, Unity has grown into a vibrant showcase of different cultures, featuring songs, dances, martial arts, and even the occasional poetry.
Unity is East’s platform to both showcase the traditions we hold close to our hearts while also providing the opportunity to learn about new ones. Most importantly, cultural expression and exploration is what unifies our diverse student body, connecting us all while allowing us to celebrate our cultural differences. As Jessica Dennehy, a longtime Unity member and a Singapore co-leader describes it, “It’s an art form.”
This year’s Unity performance had a stacked lineup. Starting off strong with Singapore, returning for its second year, dancers performed Zapin, a traditional Malay dance. Following closely behind was the Philippines, dancing with bamboo poles as they lightly weaved in and out. Iran, debuting this year, consisted of a duet to an Iranian pop song; America performed after them with three exciting acts—two dances and an instrumental piece. Sri Lanka this year featured five pairs of dancers, with each duo contributing to the unique group performance. Hispanic Pop performed a high-energy dance to reggaeton, a genre of music originating from Puerto Rico. Afterwards, Egypt was represented through an beautifully-played ensemble piece by composer Omar Khairat. Nigeria, running for the first time, danced to a fast-paced song by Rema, a Nigerian musical artist who blends traditional African beats, jazz, and hip-hop, seamlessly. Behind Nigeria was France, dancing to “Alors on danse,” a modern French song by the popular artist Stromae. China then performed an evocative group dance, followed by a duet full of drama and fans. Mexico, a crowd-favorite, returned with Bailé Folklórico, a traditional Mexican folk dance that involves the iconic skirts.
Following Mexico, Vietnam performed a dynamic hat dance called the múa nón, featuring triangular hats made of bamboo. India returned in full force with five acts, each from different parts of India. From Bhangra to South India, each performance was as unique as the regions they’re from. Then, Japan took the stage with two dances: a lively dance to vocaloid as well as a duet to J-Pop. Palestine performed the traditional dabke, a dance that demonstrates resistance and perseverance. And as the finale, Korea concluded the 2025 Unity performance with a slew of highly coordinated KPOP dances.
Unity in Diversity this year has been a way for members to have fun with friends, try new foods, learn about other cultures, and dance their hearts out. One member, Cole Stinson, mentioned, “I love how we’re able to experience all the cultures that are shown through amazing performances and dances.” His enthusiasm for Unity is certainly echoed by others participating, with Unity becoming more than just a club.
It’s a supportive environment characterized by hard work and good times. As Unity concludes its 31st performance, these heart-felt performances act as a powerful reminder that the unity in our diversity at Williamsville East exemplifies what makes the school and its community beautiful.