The University of Akron’s 13th annual Diversity Week, hosted by The Department of Student Life, is hosting five days of activities, entertainment, and interaction among students of different cultures. It will last from September 15 to September 19.

“The goal of Diversity Week is to give increased awareness in celebration of student diversity amongst our own campus community,”said David Vale, Assistant Director of Campus Programs.

Diversity, however, is not limited to ethnicity. It includes age, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status and other factors.

There are 24 individual events throughout the week including movies, games, sports, discussions and dances. Each event is free to UA students and does not require registration or reservations.

In the evening, representatives from The Department of Modern Language’s spoke to students about the importance of learning a foreign language and studying abroad. This discussion was essential for students looking to converse with others who spoke Mandarin, Spanish, French, or Arabic.

“By attending events [you are] getting educated on different cultural topics and developing a deeper understanding and appreciation of the differences on our campus,” Vale said.

Diversity Week’s schedule can be found on posters and flyers throughout campus or on The Department of Student Life’s “Campus Programs” page. The last event of the week is salsa dancing in the Student Union Market area from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 19.

Though Diversity Week provides a smooth and inclusive immersion for students curious of other cultures, it is not the only way to get involved. For more opportunities to get involved Vale recommends checking out The Source, the Multicultural office, The Office of Accessibility, and The Office of International Programs.