Spreading Light During Diwali in Langley Schools
Some school foyers and classrooms across the District were decorated with clay lamps this past week, all part of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Diwali, which is a major festival in India, is centered around the theme of light over darkness, and symbolizing good over evil.
The students in the Culture Club at Aldergrove Community Secondary’s (ACSS) brightened up their school space for Diwali with clay lamps (or diyas), marigold garlands, and coloured decorations.
“We’re here to celebrate in our school community and show how diverse our school is,” said Gurmahek Lail, a grade 12 student at ACSS.
“We also did daily announcements through this week sharing facts, just bringing awareness about the celebration and putting meaning behind it,” she said.
The students spent one afternoon sharing traditional Indian treats to observe and educate the school community about the multi-day celebration. The types of desserts they handed out included Gulab Jamun, which is a ball of bread soaked in sweet sugar, as well as Milk Cake, and Kaju Barfi, a diamond shaped bar.
“The main thing that we want to showcase is that we want everyone to have a sense of belonging and feel inclusive in our school community,” Lail added.
Other festivities took place across Langley schools. At R.E. Mountain Secondary, some students and staff wore traditional Indian sarees and lehengas in vibrant colours to celebrate the festival.
Over at Yorkson Creek Middle, some teachers served chai (tea), samosas, and home-made cookies in the shape of diyas. A student also performed an Indian style dance for students and staff.
The festival is celebrated over five days in homes and the community.
