Global Fest's focus is climate change

By Kaitlyn Delaney
Associate Editor/Photo Editor

LCC held its annual Global Fest March 27 and 28 in Gannon Building room 2214. The event focused on the impact of climate change on nature’s cycles, immigration, food security and human cultures.

There were various presentations, performances, a poetry workshop, a student panel and open discussions.

The event was open to students, employees and members of the community, free of charge or registration. The event was presented by LCC’s Global Awareness Committee, and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

Dr. John Doudna, who spoke on the second day, said his favorite part of the festival was the student panel.

“It’s great hearing from students, especially because of how it tends to go,” Doudna said. “Like that, was a perfect example of hope … And knowing that things are ramping up, the future represents a ramping-up of activism, even if it’s not in the streets, marching, but just saying things out loud and feeling strongly about it – (that’s) super critical.”

Co-chair of the event Chris Manning said he thought a discussion led by Associate Dean Felipe Lopez Sustaita from the Center for Student Support was one that needed to be had.

LCC Associate Dean Felipe Lopez (right) speaks to interested students and staff about the impact climate change has had on migrant workers during the Global Fest.  Photo by Kaitlyn Delaney

“Felipe’s discussion was actually really important,” Manning said. “Because oftentimes, that’s the part that is left out of any discussion … how (climate change) affected migrant labor, and undocumented workers.

“But now that (Lopez Sustaita) is a part of LCC, he’s a resource and a glimpse into a world we would never normally have a glimpse into. That’s just a very silent, and understandably silent, group.”

LCC Academic and Arts Outreach Coordinator Melissa Kaplan, who was in attendance both days, said she loved how there were many opportunities for people to learn.

“I love the variety of voices, but I love everyone coming together to learn about climate and culture,” Kaplan said. “And to share what they know – students, faculty, staff – everybody had something to offer, to learn from each other. And that was most exciting; all of us learning from each other.”

Three of the student panelists shared their thoughts on the panel event.

Zach Slider said his favorite part was the general discussion.

“It’s always nice to hear people talk about this stuff, nice to bounce ideas off, and just get a general idea of what everyone is thinking,” Slider shared.

Jude Selvage said he found a resource that may help change the future.

“Educators are the biggest hope for the future, and today gave me a lot of hope,” Selvage said.

Sara Preinitz talked about what is important in life, and what changes need to be made.

“The best thing I learned today was if we don’t prioritize social change over material wealth, we will sink with the ship in our finest clothes,” Preinitz said.