Parkway North High School’s Social Justice Action Team will hold the school’s first-ever Cultural Fair today from 3:30 – 7:00 p.m. The free event is open to the entire St. Louis community and will be held on the main level of the high school at 12860 Fee Fee Rd.
Senior Ryan Lutker, 17, is a member of the Social Justice Action Team, a committee he says fosters a safe inclusive environment for all students.
During the month of October, the Social Justice Action Team will celebrate diversity at Parkway North. Lutker said Parkway North is one of the most diverse schools in the area and it is an ideal place to learn about communities from around the world. Lutker said he and other students have experienced discrimination.
“I’m Jewish and I have experienced on multiple occasions some anti-Semitism at my school,” he said. “I know a few of my other friends who are African American have experienced some racism.”
Lutker said the goal is to work toward making sure students and the general public how to recognize and understand how stereotypes can hurtful. He has been the butt of stereotypical jokes and the authenticity of his religion has been questioned.
“My religion isn’t a real religion and I’m not saved,” Lutker recalled. “Also, Holocaust jokes –which are totally inappropriate.”
He said people also assume that he is rich.
“My family is not rich,” he said. “We’re comfortable, but we’re not rich.”
The event will feature an information/educational component. Various international cultures will be represented. Live music and dance from local performers, and food from St. Louis eateries will be provided.
For more information contact the Social Justice Action Team at sjat.parkwaynorth@gmail.com.
