INTERNATIONAL WEEK 2007
APRIL 07 - 14, 2007

International Week 2007 Image Gallery

Message from the Vice President of University Life:

When International Week was first held at George Mason more than 25 years ago, the world was a different place. Then, it was exciting and interesting to attend International Week events and to experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of foreign lands. Today, International Week takes on new meaning as globalization continues to change our world, making it more important than ever to understand and appreciate the many cultures that make up our world.

The International Week planners have created a schedule for 2007 that carries on the tradition of a week full of events that spotlight Mason's diversity and help all of us further our understanding of other countries and cultures. I cordially invite you to take advantage of the many opportunities that International Week offers to learn, enjoy, connect, and be challenged.

From the cricket matches on Sunday April 8th to the Dinner Dance on Saturday April 14th, I hope you'll join me in what promises to be a spectacular week at Mason.

Sandy Hubler
Vice President, University Life

Saturday, April 07

ISU Soccer Tournament

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Practice Fields, below the Field House

Players and fans are invited to an all-day soccer tournament. Teams must register in advance with ISU. Contact Hamna Rashid at hrashid@gmu.edu for more information. Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella (ISU).

Sunday, April 08

Sixth Annual International Cricket Tournament

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Parking Lot K

Teams from GMU compete for a trophy in the fascinating game of cricket. Teams must register in advance with ISU. Contact Hamna Rashid at hrashid@gmu.edu for more information. Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella

Monday, April 09

Opening Ceremony and Parade of Nations

12 noon - 1 p.m., North Plaza (Rain site: JC Atrium)

A powerful and colorful display of over 130 nationalities represented on our campus! President of George Mason University Dr. Alan G. Merten will give opening remarks and will preside over the opening ceremony of the 27th annual International Week. To carry a flag in the parade, email oips@gmu.edu.

International Bazaar & Mid-Day Performances

12 noon. - 3 p.m., North Plaza (Rain site: JC Lower Level)

Food sales, cultural exhibits, demonstrations, documentaries, vendors, music and dance performances and much more at the North Plaza (Rain site: JC Lower Level)
Sponsored by the Office of International Programs & Services

Phi Beta Delta, International Honor Society: Induction and International Honors & Awards Ceremony

3 p.m. - 5 p.m., Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall

Induction of students, faculty and staff selected for membership in GMU's Epsilon Chapter, followed by international honors and awards, and a reception. Contact Marcy Glover, (703) 993-8722 for more information.
Sponsored by the Office of the Provost and Phi Beta Delta

Black Gold Film

5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Johnson Center Cinema

The film illustrating the plight of Ethiopian coffee farmers who are unable to compete in the international market due to the structure of policies and laws that govern international trade.
Sponsord by the Ethiopian Student Association, Office of International Programs and Services.

Uganda Fundraiser

7 p.m. - 10 p.m., Johnson Center Cinema

Learn about Uganda including a speaker, food and a movie while contributing to a worthy cause. There is a $5 minimum donation that would be donated to the Arlington Academy of Hope that would directly benefits children in Uganda. For more information contact Jenna Krall jkrall@gmu.edu)
Sponsored by the University Scholars and the African Students Association

Tuesday, April 10

International Bazaar & Mid-Day Performances

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. approximately, North Plaza (Rain Site: JC Lower Level)

Food sales, cultural exhibits, demonstrations, documentaries, vendors and performances at the North Plaza (rain site: JC ground floor)
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella

International Dance Competition

12 noon. - 2 p.m., North Plaza (Rain site: Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall)

Mason's international student clubs present dances from around the world in this colorful and lively competition. Winners will perform at the International Dinner dance on Saturday, April 14.
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella

A Celebration of International Education

3 p.m. - 5 p.m., Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall

A visual demonstration of Mason's contributions to and achievements in international education. George Mason University was recently awarded the Institute of International Education's Andrew Heiskell Award for our internationalization efforts. Learn about the faculty, staff and students who contribute to the vision and ideals of international education, as schools, departments, institutes and programs at Mason showcase their international/global activities. For more information contact Sandarshi Gunawardena at sgunawar@gmu.edu.
Sponsored by the Office of International Programs and Services

International Reception, Arlington Campus

6:00-7:30 p.m., Arlington Original, Room 329

The reception will feature networking with internationally-focused organizations about study abroad, volunteer and employment opportunities; interaction with Arlington Campus students and faculty members engaged in international activities; a tasty international cuisine catered by local restaurants; an international recipe exchange and more!
For more information or if you have a great recipe to include in the recipe exchange, please contact Lori Cohen, University Life Coordinator, at lcohen@gmu.edu or 993-4495.
Sponsored by University Life

Bridging the Gap: Ethiopian Cultural Night

6 p.m. - 11 p.m., Student Union Building II, Ballroom

An Ethiopian cultural showcase to raise awareness about Ethio-African culture and diaspora, featuring music, poetry, comedy and art to promote cross-cultural understanding. Contact Yodit Gebreyes at ygebreye@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by the Ethiopian Student Association

Wednesday April 11

International Bazaar and Mid-Day Performances

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. approximately, North Plaza (Rain Site: JC lower level)

Food sales, cultural exhibits, demonstrations, documentaries, vendors and performances at the North Plaza (rain site: JC lower level).
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella

Pathways to Full-time Employment in the U.S.: Mason International Alumni Career Panel

11 a.m. - 12 noon, Johnson Center, Room H (Gold Room)

Come listen to stories from Mason's international alumni on how they successfully got hired into full-time jobs after graduation and possibly even sponsored for H-1B visas. They will talk about their experiences on how careful planning, proper marketing of their skills, and luck led them to their current jobs. They will also share insights about mistakes they have observed from their peers, and things they might do differently themselves a second time around.
Sponsored by the Office of International Programs and Services and the Career Center

A Showcase of Cultures and Global Voices

12 noon - 2 p.m., Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall

Mason's international students showcase their countries and cultures. Learn about the different countries that our students come from and listen to poetry and prose from around the world.
Sponsored by the Office of International Programs and Services

"The Forsaken Land": Film and Panel Discussion

2 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Johnson Center, Cinema

Winner of Cannes' prestigious Camera d'Or prize in 2005, The Forsaken Land is an exquisitely shot, haunting cinematic allegory of Sri Lanka's troubled past and uneasy present, reflecting the disorientation and desolation of un-ending civil war. In the words of the film's director "the suspended state of being simultaneously without war and without peace ... a world where war, peace, and God have become abstract notions." (Director Vimukthi Jayasundara). This haunting and mesmerizing film is a reflection on the deadening alienation caused by a permanent state of war. A panel discussion, including students from the Institute of Conflict Analysis and Resolution, will follow the movie. For more information contact Sandarshi Gunawardena at sgunawar@gmu.edu.
Sponsored by the Office of International Programs and Services

Racial Issues in the United States

7 p.m. - 9 p.m., Johnson Center Room C

Hermanas of Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad/Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Inc. will be making a presentation on issues affecting different races in the United States. There will also be friendly discussion on these issues and refreshments will be served. For more information contact Keila M. Garcia at kgarcia1@gmu.edu
Sponsored by Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad/Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Inc.

Sudanese Cultural Night

7 p.m. - 11 p.m., Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall Learn about the people and the culture of Sudan in a captivating showcase of fashion, dance of music and food. All proceeds will go towards Darfur Relief efforts. Contact Noon Salih at nsalih1@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by the Sudanese Students Association.

Fiesta Latina

7 pm. - 11 p.m., Student Union Building II, Ballroom

Experience the diversity of the customs and traditions and the similarities that unite the Hispanic/Latino cultures, while enjoying food, dance, fashion and music representing countries from Central and South America. Contact Andres Maldonado at amaldona@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by the Hispanic Student Association

International Talent Show

8 p.m., Johnson Center, Bistro

Enjoy the magic of student talent from around the world.
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella

Thursday, April 12

Reducing Crime and Enhancing Justice in the Caribbean

10 a.m. -12 noon Bull Run Hall, Room 130 & Atrium, Prince William Campus

A colloquium featuring the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Project. Invited guests from Trinidad will speak about reducing gang violence and the organizational transformation of the national police force.
Sponsored by the Administration of Justice program and Center for Justice Leadership and University Life

International Bazaar & Mid-Day Performances

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. approximately, North Plaza (Rain Site: JC Lower Level)

Food sales, cultural exhibits, demonstrations, documentaries, vendors and performances at the North Plaza (rain site: JC ground floor)
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella

International Fashion Show

12 noon - 2 p.m. Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall

A captivating and vibrant showcase of ethnic, traditional and modern fashions from around the world presented by Mason students.
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella and affiliated clubs.

"Apocalypto" : Film

5 p,m. - 7:15 p.m., Verizon Auditorium - Prince William Campus

Mel Gibson's film, spoken in native language, depicts ancient Mayan culture and customs.
Sponsored by University Life

Human Rights in North Korea: Panel Discussion

7 p.m., Johnson Center, Room E

A roundtable discussion of human rights violations in North Korea, lack of humanitarian aid access, and the situation of North Korean refugees. Learn from the expertise of scholars and professors in the D.C. metropolitan area. For more information contact: masonlink@gmail.com "If the Holocaust was just a German problem, is North Korea just a Korean problem?" -unknown-
Sponsored by the Korean Student Association (KSA) and the Center for Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation

Palestine Awareness Night

6:30 p.m. - 11 p.m., Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall

Experience the culture of Palestine, learn about the Palestine cause and fundraising for humanitarian assistance while enjoying an evening of music, dance and food. Contact Manal Hussein at mhussei2@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by Students for Justice in Palestine

African Night

6 p.m. - 11 p.m., Student Union Building II, Ballroom

A celebration of Trans-African cultures in an evening filled with fashion, food, music, dance and entertainment. Contact Mabel Obinim at mobinim@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by the African Student Association

Latinos in Islam: Rediscovering Our Roots

7 p.m. - 9 p.m., Johnson Center, Room C

Special guest, Brother Hernan Guadalupe from PrimeXample company, brings us an elaborate presentation on the main reasons why Latinos find a close relationship with and embrace Islam today. Come learn about the diversity of Islam and its revival in the heart of the Latino population.
Sponsored by Hermanas of Mu Chapter of Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad/Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Inc & the Muslim Student Association

"Joy Luck Club": Film

6 p.m. and 9 p.m., Johnson Center, Cinema

A movie based on Amy Tan's celebrated novel chronicling the generations of a family of Chinese women. Featuring the intertwining lives of four modern Asian-American daughters and their traditional Chinese mothers, the film explores the past, the immigrant experience and the dramas of culture clash between the old and the new generation.
Sponsored by the Film Club

Friday April 13

International Field Day

10 a.m. - 4 p.m., North Plaza (Rain Site Dewberry Hall & Lobby)

Try your hand at games and contests from around the world.
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella and the Office of International Programs and Services

International Trade: Panel Discussion

12 noon - 1 p.m., Johnson Center Food Court

Why do so many nations share the stigma coined by some economists as 'resource curse'? Panel including directors of film "Black Gold", representatives of Oxfam, embassies and Mason.
Sponsored by the Ethiopian Student Association

Arabian Night

5 p.m. - 11 p.m., North Plaza (Rain site: Johnson Center, Bistro)

Experience the enchantment of the Arab world, playing games, watching belly dancers, and enjoying food and music in an outdoor tent environment reminiscent of Arabia. Contact Nour Akkad at nakkad@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by the Arab Student Association

Caribbean Expo

7 p.m. - 11 p.m., Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall

Experience the enchanting cultures of the Caribbean with poetry, art, fashion, dance and food. Contact Regine Jean-Francois at rjeanfra@gmu.edu for more information.
Sponsored by the Caribbean Student Association

Saturday, April 14

Deshantori (The Migrant): Film and Questions and Answers Session with the Film Director Mridul Chowdhury

11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Johnson Center Cinema

Deshantori (www.deshantori.com), is a recently-released film that has won wide acclaim both in Bangladesh and abroad. It is a film that gives voice to the youth of Bangladesh by bringing out their deepest feelings ranging from their darkest frustrations to their infallible national pride. The viewer is taken on an emotional "roller-coaster ride" as the story of the film unfolds through the re-construction of the heart-wrenching experience of 26 young Bangladeshis who tried to migrate to Spain illegally in 2005 through the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea - a journey that forced them to resort to cannibalism. Do not miss this opportunity to witness a landmark Bangladeshi film that "will make you laugh, make you cry, make you think, and leave you moved and inspired" The film's co-director and executive producer, Mridul Chowdhury, currently a graduate student at Harvard University, will be present at the screening at JC Cinema to respond to queries after the screening.
Sponsored by Bengali Patriots.

International Alumni and Friends Reception

5:30 p.m. - 7pm., Mason Hall, Atrium

Mix and mingle with fellow alumni, friends of Mason's international programs, and current students, faculty and staff. This fun-filled event will include light appetizers and comments from special guests. RSVP by calling 703-993-8121 or email internationalevents@gmu.edu. Join us after the reception for the International Dinner Dance - the grand finale of International Week!
Sponsored by the Development Office, Office of Alumni Affairs & Office of International Programs and Services

International Dinner Dance

7 p.m. - 2 a.m. Johnson Center, Sid and Reva Dewberry Hall and Bistro

The grand finale of International Week 2007, featuring music, dance and a catered dinner buffet. The winners of the International Dance Competition will perform. Following an international dinner buffet, the party will continue with a DJ in the Bistro.
Tickets are $10 in advance, and can be purchased from OIPS (SUB I, room 310), or $15 at the door.
Sponsored by the International Student Umbrella and the Office of International Programs and Services

International Week Covers: 1987-2004 (PDF)

INTERNATIONAL WEEK FLAG SIGN-UP

International Week starts with the Parade of Flags on Monday April 09, 2007. If you want to carry your home country's flag or if you want to be a part of the flag parade and carry a flag, please sign up. Sign-up sheet is at OIPS.

If you signed-up to carry a flag: Meet in the SUB I lobby at 11 a.m. on Monday April 09, 2007 to participate in the ceremony. In case of rain, meet at 11 a.m. in the Johnson Center by the Cinema (lower level).
Dress Code: Your native dress or something international which will add visually to the parade of nations.

If you have any questions please call Alina Menyaylenko 993-8914 or e-mail amenyayl@gmu.edu

Showcase of Countries and Cultures

Date of the Event: Wednesday April 11, 2007
12 noon - 2 p.m., JC Dewberry Hall

George Mason University has about 1,300 international students and scholars from over 130 countries. This year once again we would like to showcase as many countries and cultures as possible, to give the GMU community an opportunity to find out more about our international students. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your culture by having a table with information about your country, which could include handouts, cultural artifacts, art, music, posters, photographs, clothing, or anything else that would add to the colorful and vibrant showcase of cultures. Please take this opportunity to make your presence at GMU visible! The possibilities are endless and we would encourage you to display and share anything you like and make the exhibit as diverse as possible.

Each country will be given a table in Dewberry Hall and the lobby outside Dewberry Hall. Please contact Alina Menyaylenko, Coordinator for Programs and Outreach of the Office of International Programs & Services (3-8914 or amenyayl@gmu.edu ) if you need any special set-up arrangements, have any questions or need any other assistance.

Students will also do poetry/prose reading in different languages. You are also welcome to play music softly by your table or show a documentary/power point presentation to add to the display. If you wish you can also have baked goods and/or candy (baked goods only because GMU has stringent policies related to food distribution and sales). You can also contact your country's embassy (many embassies are located in Washington, DC to obtain information/posters etc.

If you wish to participate in the Showcase of Countries and Cultures, please fill the application form and return it to OIPS.

INTERNATIONAL WEEK 2007 IMAGE GALLERY

Monday, April 9, Opening Ceremony

Tuesday, April 10, International Dance Competition

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Tuesday, April 10, Celebration of International Education

Wednesday, April 11, Showcase of Cultures and Global Voices

Thursday, April 12, International Fashion Show

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Friday, April 13, International Field Day

Saturday, April 14, International Dinner Dance

International Culture Nights