Dragon dancers and drummers celebrated the Lunar New Year at GBC with an event by the International Centre, Student life and the Student Association. Photo: GBC International Centre

The lion dance washed out the old year, and brought a new one as students celebrated the Lunar New Year’s at George Brown College (GBC) on Jan. 30.

Ian Chow, a Chinese cultural dancer at Northern Legs Southern Fists said, “the lion dance, in the Chinese culture, symbolizes prosperity. So as the lion is dancing, he is scaring away evil spirits and bringing us all good luck for the upcoming year. Traditionally the lion dances at the New Year, but in this day and age the lion dances all-year round.”

“The difference between the dragon and the lion is that the dragon is a guardian or protector so he has a little bit more power and strength with an aggressive fighting spirit,” said Chow. “The lion is a more friendly character, and in the Chinese culture he unites all people.”

The Student Association (SA) inter-tribal club showcased their cultures to students with food, fun and information. Set up in the career centre, this was a chance for all students to learn something new.

Taking part in the showcase were students representing the Chinese, Aboriginal, and Latin cultures.

“The Aboriginal culture is one of important and historical cultures in Canada, so I would like to let our international and domestic students know/remind that SA of GBC has inter-tribal club, and we support every club too,” said Jean Yen Han, International Student representative. “I wish we can see more diversity events in GBC.”

Yen Han, says she wants all students to embrace other cultures, while feeling comfortable and enjoying the college experience.

Student Association’s aboriginal constituency rep, Coty Zachariah said, “This is the Chinese lunar event, but I am very much in support of the international constituency at George Brown College.”

As GBC is currently home to students from over 100 countries, this event helped international students to raise awareness of different cultures in the college.

“The international student centre is putting on the event, but it’s a good chance for other clubs or services to showcase their services, it’s also good for outreach,” said Zachariah.

Striving to provide students with more cultural awareness, the inter-tribal student club will be holding a general information meeting on Feb. 4 at 4 p.m. in the Sahkitcheway Student Centre, room 562D.