The Language Society of Alpena Community College is hosting “Carnaval: A Brasilian Tradition” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today in the commons in the Besser Technical Center. This fundraiser is focusing on the culture, diversity, language, music, foods, and customs of Brazil.

All the students involved will cook, prepare, and participate in the event, which is open to the public. Donations will be accepted. All funds raised will go toward the Language Society’s June 2023 trip to Greece and Italy.

This fall, they wanted to focus on Brazil because they have a student who is from that country, Kailane Matos Cunha.

“It takes me back all the way home,” she said.

News Photo by Darby Hinkley Members of the Alpena Community College Language Society prepare for Carnaval: A Brasilian Tradition, happening from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today in the commons in the Besser Technical Center. From left to right are Kailane Matos Cunha, of Brazil, Bailey Summers, and Abby Ross. The event will feature Brazilian food, music, games, and more, and is free to the public. Donations will be accepted.

She and her family moved here from Ilheus, Bahia, Brazil because her dad got a job at Lafarge in Alpena.

“It’s awesome,” she said of being able to celebrate her culture and teach others about her heritage. “I just hope people embrace what we are doing, because everybody brings different traditions. I think that’s one of the most beautiful things that the human race has, is the diversification … The fact that you embrace, and, kind of, try to understand, it’s a huge step for everyone.”

Meagan Wright is the president of the Language Society at ACC.

“We really want to encourage students to learn about cultural diversity, and introduce them to different cultures,” Wright said.

She is excited to have Matos Cunha here to help plan for the event.

“Having that local expertise really helps us bring a depth to the event that we’re doing,” Wright said. “Having someone who has an intimate knowledge of that culture really helps.”

At the event, The Language Society will also be selling handmade wreaths in three sizes for $15, $20, and $25.

Dr. Karol Walchak is the advisor of The Language Society and speech instructor at ACC.

“We’re just such an isolated area,” Walchak said of Alpena and the surrounding area. “If we can’t go and see other cultures, this is a unique and wonderful opportunity for students to engage and involve others in a culture that isn’t easily accessible to us. So, we step into it with music, and food, and friendship, and camaraderie, and language, which is at the heart of our society.”

For more information, contact Walchak at walchakk@alpenacc.edu.