Lunar New Year celebration approaches

The spirit and vitality of Haverford’s Pan-Asian Alliance has allowed it to serve as a leader in the school’s cultural life. It boasts 45-50 members, holds frequent events in collaboration with other schools, and has a special plan for the upcoming Lunar New Year.

Sixth Former and PAA leader Justin Fan said that Asian students’ increased interest in cultural education has allowed the Alliance to expand. 

“We wanted to create that space where Asian students could be together,” Fan said.

But PAA’s success is also attributable to a philosophy of inclusion. 

Fifth Former Alex Borghese, another PAA leader, said, “Over the past couple of years the PAA has made an effort to connect more with the greater populace, not only Asians but everyone. We have made it our mission to not only educate, but share our cultures and values, and try and excite as many as possible.”

PAA’s strategy not only brings its own community together but also welcomes all Haverford students to share in the cultural experiences of their brothers.

In its mission to provide a space for Asian students and educate the broader community, the PAA leaders have their sights set on the Lunar New Year holiday, this year on February 10th. 

The group is looking to recognize the event, which holds significance to many students, while also incorporating the entire student body into the celebration.

Fan explained that the PAA will be creating traditional Lunar New Year gifts that symbolize good fortune and luck. 

“We’re planning on creating red envelopes for all students in the upper school, middle school, and lower school,” he said. “In each red envelope there will be a small infographic that is talking about this year being the Year of the Dragon and some basic information about Lunar New Year.”

The Lunar New Year initiative is but one of PAA’s many community-building activities. In December, the group hosted a movie night with other area schools. Beyond providing a space for connection based on shared experience, these activities also allow diverse groups of students to come together based on cultural curiosity, and PAA’s efforts to connect with all students allow them to stay vibrant.

“Groups have learned that celebrating each other’s differences but also similarities allow for a more interconnected, cohesive, and loving world.”

Milan Varma ’25

“Groups have learned that celebrating each other’s differences but also similarities allow for a more interconnected, cohesive, and loving world,” Fifth Form PAA leader Milan Varma said. “Creating cultural connections at a young age allows students to have more open minds and hearts, and is a cornerstone of the Haverford community.”