The PA King Inclusion and Diversity Committee’s Festival of Lights was an inclusive celebration of the many cultures, religions, and faiths within the King School community. The event took place on December 7 in the Middle School.

“We drew inspiration from other festival of lights events,” said Dian Holder, Co-Chair of the PA KInD committee. “We wanted to showcase the different winter holidays and the many light-themed cultural celebrations. As we planned the evening, we invited the community to share traditional food and activities that define us but also bring us together. 

Tables representing Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanzaa, Christmas, Lunar New Year, and New Year were set up in the Middle School Main Commons. Participants conversed with each other, learning more about the diversity of the community, and heard original poetry from students and English teacher Adam Boaz. LED candles were illuminated at the end of the event to joyous cheer.

“As we lit our candles in the end, glowing together, we celebrated light over darkness, good over evil, and the need to feel hopeful,” Holder said.